The Yellow Perch

About this piece

Gulls and two pelicans occupy a weathered concrete dock, gathered around a brilliant yellow mooring bollard framed by metal ladder rails. Strong sunlight defines feathers, painted metal, and stained concrete, while turquoise water and a palm-lined shore soften the background. The central gull's stillness contrasts with the outstretched wings of a pelican to the right.

The story

January light falls brightly across the dock, turning the yellow bollard into a small sun above the water. A gull stands on its crown while others occupy the concrete ledge below. To the right, a pelican opens its wings beside a companion resting with its head tucked away. Beyond this gathering, pale houses sit among palms along the shore. For a moment, the dock belongs entirely to feathers, long bills, and patient feet.