Busting the urban myth of the engineer-turned-farmer

Why read this story?

Editor's note: Every once in a while, some of us are overcome with a compelling need for change. Perhaps this is because of our mundane work or some significant shift in our lives. Or maybe because of the well-worn routines our lives have settled into. As we start figuring out what this change could be, we are often drawn towards the idea of a simpler existence. It makes us crave a (non-virtual) space where we can reinvent ourselves. As we look out for our true (or new) calling, one idea that appeals to us more strongly than others is the urge to go back to a simpler time and reconnect with the real world and nature. Run away from the tyrannies of the city, find a parcel of land in a village and start farming; we hear a voice in our head. Take in the clean air, feel the earth, work it. Become a successful farmer. Surely you can. You know how to. You know the science behind it, and you can afford the technology. The world is your oyster. I’m sorry …