In Wisconsin lore, and most likely in fact too, U.S. Highway 8 marks a sort of demarcation point in the state. Supposedly, the road marks the line in the state where economic livlihood becomes, not impossible, but markedly more difficult. I suppose that could be the case - a disproportionate number of people are involved in practices that are tied to the land. Some in farming, most in logging. Life in such trades can at times slog along at levels just a share above subsistence - especially in a failing economy and in an environment in which building has slowed down considerably.
It is not just economics though. According to some, Highway 8, also marks a line in behavior in the state. To the southern Madison-Milwaukee belt of elites, "up-norders" have little knowledge of the finer things. I think, that rather than ignorance, it is just a choice to pursue a different set of finer things. Things like a crisp fall morning, mist rising off the water, and a sunset unspoiled by the hues caused by air pollution. Still, generalizations.
And so, this blog, in addition to a regular (semi) accounting of life, will also delve into an investigation into life "North of 8." I hope to discuss the history and lore of the area, as well as ruminations on the finer things described above.
Giga-waabamin minawaa.
2 comments:
You, my broom-handle-breaking friend, ARE living the finer life.
I can't escape my love of convenience, entertainment and family, but Milwaukee is definitely missing out on the great people and values up nort.
I found your blog by trying to register 'north of 8' for my own blog name! We have a saying, "the rules are different north of 8". Reading your posts I can see you may believe it too.
dunndoing
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