Those of us who live in Corfu, or have visited the island in November, know that this is the month that a metamorphosis occurs - when green grass carpets most of the island, and Corfu actually seems to wake up from its long summer slumber. In school we learned that fall and winter are the seasons during which nature takes a rest, in order to be revitalized for its vibrant spring. Thinking it over now, however, it seems that whoever wrote that thought probably has never seen Corfue in autumn. Also, winter is supposed to be an inactive season, but on this island no season is really inactive. However, nature seems to go through its least creative period during the summer. Vegetation is extremely sparse and the landscape takes on a desert-like appearance, especially along its southern shore. Of course, we cannot ignore the plethora of fruits and vegetables being produced during this period. Therefore, the "inactivity" is in appearance only, which is caused by the intense drought that rules the land.

In autumn, when the first rains wash away the summer dust, Corfu nature seems to suddenly wake up and begin
its chores, and within a few days all is green again, with beautiful wildflowers dotting the countryside. Listen closely and you can almost hear the heartbeat of the inner island which now takes center-stage - away from the shores, which was the epicenter of interest for almost six months, as Greek and foreign tourists invaded the numerous seaside resorts. Immediately at the end of the summer, farming activities get into full swing with the gathering of grapes and the spreading and drying of the raisins. Corfu Autumn sets in with the plowing and sowing of the fields, and the stomping of the grapes for the year's production of wine and raki. When autumn turns to winter, it's the time for the olives to be harvested - an activity which involves thousands of Corfiots, farmers and non-farmers alike. Just about everyone on Corfu owns at least some olive trees in the villages, even though most of the population resides in the cities. It is almost inconceivable for a Corfiot to purchase olive oil for home. Most people produce a sufficient quantity for the needs of the entire family, while a great many insure an extra income by selling their olive oil ...