True North

Handheld compasses are nearly relics in the modern, digitized world of satellites that compute time to nearest nanoseconds, give locations on earth within a few meters tolerance, and spy on non-NATO nuclear facilities. It does create a nostalgic longing for a more analogue, tangible world. Nonetheless, the actual point where one could find themselves pirouetting endlessly with the world ever spinning beneath their feet - like a mini-spinner on a gigantic top - is not precisely the spot that attracts iron, nickel and cobalt needles to itself. Close, but no cigar…or, no needle. The difference between the two shifts significantly depending on one’s location on Earth. For short excursions, the difference is often negligible and can be ignored with little effect in the outcome of destination. However, for more robust journeys, the difference could prove severe, even fatal. It should serve as a warning that the more ‘attractive’, or magnetic option, if followed, can prove disastrous.