Learning sometimes seems to go slow. But keeping at er. Feeling in the dark most of the time. The books I have help light the way somewhat but the only way to find the way is to go it yourself. Get out there and light the forge in the spirit that your about to learn something. It may turn out okay… or great or it could be a complete flop. Good experience or bad experience; it matters not, for you had an experience.
Smithing is the art of moving metal and the material is mysterious. The only way to discover her secrets is to engage yourself with her. I can read books all day but the only way you're going to get anywhere is to dive right in.
The solid iron bars are the blank canvas upon which an infinite variety of possibilities lay dormant. It is the result of a special interaction, a unique interaction that takes place in the heat of the moment, when the steel is aglow. What you choose to do the instant the piece is drawn from the fire and brought to the anvil initiates a relationship. The art of smithing is a two-way street. The metal moves guided by the hammer, and depending on the experience and sensitivity of the smith, taking whatever form the smith desires. But sensitivity and experience are not won easily. they come from familiarity with the material. All good relationships are built on trust and respect. And trust and respect is won through familiarity. It is through familiarity that one gains a respect for how the Iron wants to move. Through this respect, trust is born. The smith, knowing his material can achieve whatever form desired.
