The Earth
THE NATURAL EARTH
- Chapter 3 -
The location and changeableness of the heart of the Earth
Where is the center of gravity or heart of the Earth? It cannot be said that it may be found anywhere, because its location may be subject to very important changes. The interior disposition of the earthly body is such that its center of gravity may operate in the north as well as the south. A local anchoring of the substance that determines the gravity of the Earth is entirely impossible. This center of gravity which enlivens matter may also be recognized in many plants.
When you study a tree, you will see that its growth, as well as its fruitfulness, is at times inclined more to one side and at other times more to the other. In one year it will prosper on the northerly side; in another year it will grow to the southerly side. From time to time there will be more or less dead branches and twigs on one side, and at other times these will appear on another side.
These and many similar appearances have the same reason, namely the continuously changing locality of the center of gravity, that is, the actual enlivening positive polarity.
The reason why this enlivening center of gravity changes its position in these bodies requires great understanding. Were its permanent existence the purpose of the matter, then this polar center of gravity could be positioned in such a way that the matter would constantly have to remain the same. An apple tree would remain an apple tree for eternity, and so it would be in all cases. But then an animal or a plant would not be any better off than a diamond. Wherever the polarity in a body becomes more and more permanent and coincides almost with the measured central point, the more solid and permanent that body will be. But such a body is then no longer suitable for anything other than its own continuing, unchangeable existence. It would be very difficult for all living beings to exist on such a diamond-hard terrestrial body and find nourishment and shelter.
From this description you will understand why this polar center of gravity cannot be a permanent one, but one which must change, just as the blood of human beings and animals possesses no gravitational quality. Neither eddying blood, much less a heart bound fast, would be of use to any living being. In moving animal bodies the heart can take a more stationary position, since free body movements may, by themselves, cause many reactions to those bodies which do not have the capability of free movement. The necessary reactions must be carried on through the alternating point of the polar center of gravity.
Therefore, the position of the center of gravity of the Earth may only be given approximately for this present and the next year (1846-1847). It is approximately under Iceland, and part of Norway, Sweden, and Lapland, and extends north to Kamchatka (Siberia) and south into the area of the Mediterranean.