The article connects the experiences of archaeologists uncovering burn layers in historic settlements with the personal loss suffered during a modern wildfire in California. The author recounts the stark contrast and legacy revealed through blackened soil layers like those at Tel Halif, which signify trauma and destruction. The parallels drawn between ancient civilizations and modern communities illustrate the enduring human tendency to rebuild despite adversity. Ultimately, the author reflects on the shared histories of loss and regeneration that transcend time.
"A burn layer puts a mark on a timeline. There is a before, and there is an after, and there is no mistaking the one for the other."
"Humans tend to build and rebuild in the same places. In archaeology, the hills made up of the ruins of successive eras - often many yards deep and spanning centuries or even millennia - are called 'tells.'"
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