Impressions of the world

ROMANIA | Monday, 14 January 2013 | Views [351] | View Smaller Image

In a village where alcohol abuse and other afflictions fell many by middle-age, 94-year-old Haralambie stands out not only for longevity, but for a life of genuine achievement. In this photo he shows off medals awarded to him during the communist regime for being the top-producing fisherman of his community. Haralambie has grown an increasingly longer beard as he grew older – according to Lippovans’ customs, this is a requirement in order to be admitted to heaven.

The rhythms of fishing define life in the Delta. A fisherman’s day is almost over by sunrise, when he gathers his nets and takes stock of the catch. By the time most city dwellers get to their offices, fishermen here have finished a day’s work. Almost daily, fishermen in the Delta catch prized specimens that will command premium prices on supermarket shelves, and yet they receive a pittance for their work. To make up for this, they often poach endangered species such as sturgeon.

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Beekeeping is one of the very few activities available in the Delta besides fishing. Known simply as “uncle Bee”, this man watches his handful of hives from the cool shadow of his shed, where he takes umbrage from the scorching heat that can easily exceed 40 degrees Celsius in late August. Whereas fishing might be marginally more social, beekeeping is a solitary occupation in a corner of the world where solitude grinds the joy out of life.

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Impressions of the world

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