Photo © Cynthia Staples
Cynthia Staples : A Cast of Shadows

Words & Images

A Cast of Shadows

By Cynthia Staples

Sometimes, when I am walking through the woods, tree bark reminds me of canvas.

Photo © Cynthia Staples

The setting sun is transformed into an artist painting upon the textured surface of every tree around me. Luminous fingers touch here and there as it makes its descent into dusk. Trailing behind are its cast of shadows, like in an opera, telling a story that changes with every moment as the sun’s gold light recedes.

Photo © Cynthia Staples

The full story is lost to poor mortal me, but even so I know I am lucky to be witness to just a bit of the beauty revealed in the waning light. Detailed structures entwined with twisted limbs. Moss and mushrooms, and lichen like crusty little leaves. Winged creatures settling above in the branches, and the limbless settling down in the roots, all awaiting the sun’s return.

Photo © Cynthia Staples

And everywhere, there be shadows, a dark patchwork highlighting the deepening colors and the depths of the soon-to-be sleeping woods.

Photo © Cynthia Staples

Anyway, those are the fanciful thoughts that come to me now as I sort through images from my recent walk amidst trees. On that day, when asked what I photographed, I could find no words. I could not explain the magic I saw around me. And that was okay. Sometimes no words are necessary. Be in the moment. The words will come, if needed. •

© 2014 Cynthia Staples. All rights reserved.

Photo by Cynthia StaplesCynthia Staples is a highly creative writer and photographer living in the Boston area. Her words and images capture moments and memories and weave together inspiring stories for her readers. More »

7/9/14

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