In the world of energy politics the sudden vanishing of the word 'coal' is a remarkable and unprecedented event.

I had in mind a message although I hope it doesn't intrude too badly persuading Americans and especially Southerners of the critical importance of land and our vanishing natural environment and wildlife.

Al Gore the former vice-president of the United States lives in a mansion that uses more electricity than the average family's bungalow! David Suzuki rides on a bus that uses more fuel than a Smart car to get across Canada! Oh my God! And this is just the tip of the vanishing iceberg!

The past itself as historical change continues to accelerate has become the most surreal of subjects - making it possible... to see a new beauty in what is vanishing.