Gertrude Jekyll: 'It is no use asking me or anyone else how to dig... Better to go and watch a man digging, and then take a spade and try to do it.'

It is no use asking me or anyone else how to dig... Better to go and watch a man digging, and then take a spade and try to do it.

In her quote, Gertrude Jekyll offers a valuable piece of advice when it comes to learning and mastering new skills: rather than seeking verbal instructions or attempting to understand the process through explanation alone, it is far more effective to observe someone in action and then immerse oneself in the task. This approach of learning by doing not only applies to the physical act of digging but can be extrapolated to encompass a broader philosophy of life. By immersing ourselves in experiences and actively participating in the world around us, we are able to gain a deeper understanding and develop a greater sense of mastery in various aspects of our lives.Observation has always been a fundamental tool for learning, and it is through observation that children acquire a multitude of skills during their early years. From learning how to walk to discovering how to tie shoelaces, children watch and imitate those around them before attempting these actions themselves. Similarly, as adults, we learn new skills by watching experts in action and then attempting to replicate their techniques. We cannot simply read a book on swimming and expect to become proficient in the water without actually diving in and getting our feet wet.Somewhere in the realm of this insightful quote lies a philosophical concept that embellishes its meaning: the notion of experiential knowledge. Philosophers have long debated the nature of knowledge and how it is acquired. Traditional epistemology tends to focus on the divide between empirical knowledge gained through sensory experience and rational knowledge obtained through reason and logical deduction. However, Gertrude Jekyll's quote invites us to explore the idea that experiential knowledge, gained through direct engagement with the world, plays a crucial role in our understanding of the world around us.Experiential knowledge can be seen as a bridge between the purely empirical and the purely rational. It recognizes that some knowledge can only be obtained through direct experience, as there are certain aspects of life that transcend abstract explanations. For instance, how can we truly comprehend the exhilaration of riding a roller coaster without actually hopping on one ourselves? Furthermore, there are aspects of our daily lives that we may take for granted, but if we were to actively engage and explore them, we might gain a new perspective or even stumble upon unexpected insights.By connecting Gertrude Jekyll's advice to the concept of experiential knowledge, we are presented with a compelling argument for engaging fully with the world and seizing opportunities for hands-on learning. Instead of relying solely on secondhand information, we should actively seek out experiences that challenge us, open our minds, and allow us to grow. Just as watching a man dig will teach us more about digging than any amount of explanation, immersing ourselves in new experiences will yield a rich tapestry of knowledge and understanding that can only be acquired through direct involvement.In conclusion, Gertrude Jekyll's quote serves as a reminder that learning and mastery cannot be achieved through passive observation or theoretical understanding alone. To truly grasp the essence of a skill or concept, we must actively participate and engage with the world. In doing so, we unlock the power of experiential knowledge, a type of wisdom that transcends mere words and propels us towards a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world we inhabit. So, let us take Jekyll's advice to heart, grab our spades, and embrace the joy of discovery through firsthand experience.