Roots

We know the force of gravity, but not its origins; and to explain why we become attached to our birthplaces we pretend that we are trees and speak of roots. Look under you feet. You will not find gnarled growths sprouting through the soles. Roots, I sometimes think, are a conservative myth, designed to keep us in our places.
- Salman Rushdie in 'Shame'

Picture taken on the eastern banks of the Willamette in Sellwood, Portland, May 1 2005