In "Tamsin" by Peter S. Beagle, the protagonist faces the dire condition of the topsoil on their land, which has been poorly managed over the years. The soil is lacking essential nitrogen, indicating a severe deficiency in nutrients that are crucial for healthy plant growth. Furthermore, the methods of fertilization have been reckless, suggesting a history of neglect or mismanagement that has led to the deterioration of the land's quality.
The text also harshly criticizes the irrigation system put in place, calling for accountability for its poor installation. The imagery evokes a sense of frustration with past decisions that have harmed the land, emphasizing the need for responsible caretaking and a return to methods that nurture the environment rather than damage it.