chord

The chord is a waist cord used by avout as part of everyday dress within a math. It serves as a belt for anchoring the long cloth bolt and as a general-purpose tie when the bolt is rolled for carrying. Avout sometimes refer to their simple kit as “the bolt, the chord, and the sphere,” highlighting the minimal, practical nature of their clothing.

Description and Use

• Worn and knotted at the waist, the chord helps fix the bolt’s position and shape. Avout may tug the section of the bolt hanging below the chord to adjust length and coverage, and fold their hands just above it when hooded or at rest.
• When the bolt is rolled into a cylinder for travel or work, the ends can be tied off with the chord and the bundle slung diagonally across the back like a bedroll.
• The chord is also referenced in connection with common wraps such as the “basic modesty knot,” where the bolt is passed around the waist and between the thighs before being secured.

Context

The chord is seen in daily life inside the Cloister of a Decenarian community, where avout prepare for duties such as tending the clock and moving between the Old and New Libraries. Its presence underscores the practical, adaptable nature of avout clothing.

Status

In active, everyday use by avout within the math; nothing suggests it is ceremonial or rare.

See also

• avout
• bolt
• Cloister