Archimedes’ Screw


Archimedes’ screw was an invention by the famous Greek mathematician (287-212 B.C.E), consisting of a tube surrounding an inner screw-type-mechanism.  By turning the screw, Archimedes was able to move water uphill, thus opening up more opportunities for the irrigation of crops (as one example).  Farmers now use a modern version of Archimedes invention to move corn in an easier way than with a shovel.  We were able to see a copy of Archimedes’ device in an exhibition of early inventions at the Strategic Air Command Museum outside of Omaha a few years ago.  My first thought was that his screw functioned the same way that I pictured my brain working.  Thoughts go in on side, go round and round in my head for what seems like eight years, and then come out in other forms.  Sometimes, this process is helpful; sometimes . . . well . . . let’s just say the original thoughts were better.

When I began working on a column a few years ago (and a subsequent blog), it seemed that this invention would be an apt title for my particular form of word wrangling.  At present, there are a bunch of old posts and nothing new.  However, my intention is that posting this notice would act as a spur and push me to write some more.  Follow the link below to see for yourself.

Pastor Jeff

Archimedes’ Screw