For as long as humans have looked to the sky and soil to predict upcoming events, almanacs have existed to help them. The word “almanac” itself dates so far back that no one can agree on its origin—guesses range from a Spanish Arabic derivation to a play on the Ancient Greek word for “calendar.” With its roots in astronomy, early iterations of the almanac were calendars that charted moon phases and the rising and setting times of the sun. The Ancient Greeks and Egyptians included festival dates in their almanacs, while Romans pinpointed lucky and unlucky days to do business and Medieval versions added holy days. This story is from Kinfolk Issue Thirty-Nine Buy Now Related Stories Arts & Culture Issue 51 Emily Gernild The Danish painter breathing new life into an old medium. Arts & Culture Food Issue 51 Imogen Kwok The artist takes food styling quite literally, creating accessories out of fruits and vegetables. Arts & Culture Design Issue 51 How to Make a Chair And do it on a tiny budget. Arts & Culture Issue 51 Odd Jobs The comedian with strong opinions about your home décor. Arts & Culture Issue 51 Tall Order The hidden depths of height. Arts & Culture Films Issue 51 Vicky Krieps An interview with the actor.
Arts & Culture Food Issue 51 Imogen Kwok The artist takes food styling quite literally, creating accessories out of fruits and vegetables.
