The incurable optimism of the farmer who throws his seed on the ground every spring, betting it and his time against the elements, seemed inextricably to blend with the creed of her pioneer forefathers that "it is better farther on"-- only instead of farther on in space, it was farther on in time, over the horizon of the years ahead instead of the far horizon of the west.
The passage reflects the unwavering optimism of farmers who sow their seeds each spring, despite the uncertainty posed by nature. This dedication to planting represents a hopeful gamble, as farmers invest not only their time but also their dreams into the soil, trusting that their efforts will yield a fruitful future.
Additionally, this perspective ties into the philosophy of the author's pioneer ancestors, who believed in the promise of better opportunities ahead. However, rather than looking towards new lands to the west, it emphasizes a forward-looking mindset focused on what the future holds in terms of growth and progress over the years to come.