The Chicago Skyway has always fascinated me. It’s a high-arching toll bridge that runs over the industrial hinterland hugging the Lake south of the city. It’s nearly unavoidable if you want to go to Indiana or Michigan because it’s by far the fastest route there from the city. Unfortunately, it’s very difficult to take good…
Convergence
Is there an end to which all things converge? Celia rushes to the office, rushes to write, to create what’s needed. With masses of others, she strives to improve. The traffic surges forward through the slippery dim city streets. Look up and see buildings—and trains!— towering. Cars speed forward, trying to get ahead, cutting one…
Altered perspective
People are fascinated by the el, specifically by the experience of being under the el in the middle of the city. I admit to sharing this fascination, though I also like to imagine how much more beautiful downtown would be without the elevated—if, like all the other train lines, it were buried underground in this…
The safe house
I like the appearance of this house, because it achieves a “Christmasy” look so effortlessly. Most of the effect comes from illuminating the natural beauty of the formal evergreens, to which have been added a few strings of seasonal lights. The windows and doors of the first floor are decorated with traditional evergreen swags, though…
Golden
It’s dark, it’s wet, it’s rumbly. It’s the drama of being under the el when the weather is crummy. Golden and gritty: that’s our city.
They are with me
Evening falls, and the world comes in through the window of my study. The lights and spirits of evening home-life commune. Even in my quietest moments I dwell in this communal stew, their lighted windows winking at mine.
Expectancy
Here we are, waiting for the next new thing. Happy New Year, everyone! CHC Click image to enlarge.
Typicality
What accounts for the appeal of a particular picture? I like this one because of the different colors and sources of light and the many textures; the way the smooth metal lamppost accents the irregularity of the illuminated tree. Above all, this picture captures something of what it’s like to be on an ordinary Chicago…
Chaste welcome
An old vintage apartment exudes peace and stability on a quiet side street. A simple garland of lights adorns its elaborate entry and heavy doors.
Phantom skyline
A mirror-wall in winter, its illusion confusing to birds and humans alike.
Energetic night
A narrow strip of park screams with night energy, with the enforced sleeplessness of all living things. Electrified, earth and trees crackle with outlandish colors, whether lemon yellow, bronze, or pinkish-purple. Click image to enlarge.
Beyond the gate
Peer through the heavy iron gate into the untouched preserve that wealth creates. There, no dog has messed or even strayed. No boot has smudged the snowy carpet. All is still and orderly: beautiful and obedient, and full of care.
