Retired Pianist by Jalingo River at Dawn

Cool morning air hangs heavy near the Jalingo riverside landing as distant street lamps spill a warm, amber glow against the deep blue of pre-dawn. The subject stands in profile, framed by the rule of thirds, with dramatic clouds rolling low over the water. Long, elegant fingers rest loosely against a rough wooden railing, their pale skin catching the faint artificial light. The cool season is evident in the soft fabric of a dark coat draped over the shoulders. Behind, the dark silhouette of the riverbank meets the water, while the distant lamps create soft pools of illumination on the wet ground. One reflection of a street lamp shimmers briefly on the rippling surface of the river.