The indigo dyeing we practice involves the work of countless microorganisms. Microorganisms in the soil, those that promote the fermentation of sukumo (indigo compost), and those active within the dye vat itself. The indigo blue we express is brought about by the labor of these tiny, invisible beings. Though we simply call them "microorganisms," they are of many different kinds, intricately intertwined in each process, and constantly in a state of instability and flux.
When Human Ego Disrupts the Balance
In managing our indigo dye vats, we periodically provide nutrients for the microorganisms in the form of wheat bran and sake. However, if our human ego—the desire for "more intense color"—becomes too strong, these additions can also nourish harmful bacteria, causing the vat to rot instead.
The same can be said for the field. Suppose we apply a large amount of nitrogen-rich fertilizer to the soil, thinking it will benefit the indigo leaves. The indigo plants may grow into plump, nutrient-rich specimens, but their unnaturally delicious leaves will attract pests and be devoured in no time. Of course, excessive nutrients also invigorate weeds, ultimately hindering the growth of the indigo.
In all things, moderation is key.
Human control, however well-intended, can easily destroy their delicate society.
A Complex Web Woven by Diversity
What is needed in the world of microorganisms is a "society that embraces diversity." A wide variety of organisms are intricately linked, sometimes in opposition, and coexisting through a process of selection. They never act in isolation.
Recent research has gradually revealed which microorganisms are at work in each process. One might be tempted to think that by adding specific nutrients to stimulate only the useful microorganisms, we could produce the perfect indigo blue. But the profound nature of "diversity" is that things rarely go as planned.
Parallels to Human Society
This is much like our own human society. We, too, are formed by the presence of others; who we are is defined by our relationships with them. "I" and "you," "us" and "them." The relationships that build our society never stand still; they are constantly moving, intricately interwoven like a web, where even a minor fray can bring about great change in the whole.
Our sense of self can waver due to the most unexpected events.
There is very little that we humans can do for the microorganisms that form a society so similar to our own.
All we can do is listen to them, not miss the slightest change, and simply stand quietly by their side. Sometimes, we must even let go of the urge to "control" and entrust ourselves to the power of nature. It is only by accepting that instability that the indigo blue we seek will reveal itself.