While jogging by the river, two sisters witness a pale-green bird fall from the sky, evoking feelings of responsibility for its fate. Their encounter leads to a short contemplation on their knowledge of birds and urban life. Though they initially feel compelled to move the bird off the path, they ultimately leave it behind, grappling with the weight of the moment. The conversation shifts to an artist installation, contrasting the fleeting nature of life with the permanence of art.
"They squatted down like children to inspect the body. A pale-green bird with a cream-colored breast, too delicate for a city bird."
"If they had seen the dead bird in a state of decay, they would have simply sidestepped it. But because they'd witnessed the moment it struck the ground, they felt somehow responsible."
"The path along the Hudson River was almost empty at that hour. A flock of seagulls bobbed on the water, penned in by a rhomboid of lamplight."
"You know, the artist. I profiled him in the magazine several years ago... Now he's back in town to install a new show in Chelsea."
Collection
[
|
...
]