Charcoal Stick on Pier Railing in Gulu

Pale north daylight floods a rough wooden bench, highlighting the deep black texture of a charcoal stick resting near worn tool handles. The wood grain runs vertically, showing signs of heavy use and sharp edges where metal contacts the surface. Condensation beads along a nearby glass pane, catching the light in tiny, sharp droplets that blur the background slightly. The dry season air leaves the wood dry despite the moisture on the glass. The charcoal lies still, its tip pointing toward the worn metal, creating a stark contrast between the soft carbon and the hard, polished steel. A shadow falls across the bench, marking the angle of the high afternoon sun outside the window.