The Back-Folk: Day XXIII
Medicine: translations, rounds, care
Interestingly, it has never been possible to distinguish between the words “medicine”, “science”, and “magic” when translating from the original Back-Folk language. It is not that there is only a single term to encompass all three of these words; there are several terms, but there does not appear to be a consistent direct translation, one for each word. Instead, it appears that there is a series of terms, with some kind of secondary interpretation relating to the detail of the circumstances in which “medicine,” “science”, or “magic” are used and referred – but, again, it has not yet been possible to understand the rules behind which word is used when. One theory suggests that the level of detail relates not to the way in which a member of the Back-Folk defines and approaches these terms, but the way in which the receiver, or listener, defines these terms. Thus, “medicine” might have two different words and interpretations, based on the extent to which two separate people understand the existence and application of medicine.
It is known that there is at least one Elder who sits on the Trunk as a representative relating to medicine and science. It is also known that there is a group of what are usually referred to as herbologists experimenting to make and improve cures to common illnesses.
The Back-Folk equivalent of doctors tend to prefer home visits to hosting surgeries, though they can be contacted at their tribal homes in emergencies or if something cannot wait. As well as scheduled home visits, there is a daily “round” whereby the doctor walks through each of the tribal areas, making themselves available should there be any call for their services.
In cases which merit all-round care, it has been known for doctors to move in with particularly ill patients, ensuring round the clock care.
