EYEFUL OR EARFUL?

When I saw the photographers behind their tripods poised around Lower Bridge, I knew they'd sighted the Kawasemi bird nearby and all wanted to get the prize shot. After all, the winner of those photo contests gets his name and entry on nation-wide calendar covers, doesn't he? Who wouldn't want that?

I walked onto the larger Main Bridge and faced Far End, the part of the pond away from Lower Bridge, where all the cameramen were. I said in a low voice,

"Peter, there are no cameras HERE! They're all looking for you around Lower Bridge; you can come here!" I was only half expecting the bird to understand so was surprised to see the Kawasemi dart over the water and do just that--he came! Then he perched on a branch in a shady place no one would be able to see him.

But as I stood on the bridge, I realized there were others, not interested in the sight of an award-winning bird, but basking in the song of the Uguisu. They weren't even trying to see it, just enjoying its pretty "ho-hokekyo". I don't know if you've heard it. It sounds like spring somehow.

I ended up sitting for hours sketching someone sitting and listening to it.