Summary

The webpage presents a photojournal titled "Whispers," which explores the aesthetic and functional roles of shadows in our environment through a series of poetic captions and photographs.

Abstract

"Whispers" is an artistic compilation by Dennett that delves into the intricate beauty and significance of shadows. The piece reimagines Spanish moss as "tree hair," suggesting a preference for the native term Itla-okla. It posits that shadows enhance life by adding mystery and interest, cooling the environment, and providing a counterpart to the sun's brightness. Shadows are depicted as essential elements that offer relief, refuge, and repose, while also contributing depth and drama to photography. The journal encourages viewers to seek out the subtle "whispers" of shadows with their cameras, emphasizing their often-overlooked presence that adds a layer of romance and tranquility to our world.

Opinions

Shadows are undervalued aspects of our surroundings that make life more intriguing and less intimidating.
The term "Spanish moss" is considered a misnomer, with "Itla-okla" or "tree hair" being preferred for accuracy and cultural sensitivity.
Shadows are not just visual elements but also influence our sensory experiences, providing coolness and protection from heat.
The author believes that shadows are integral to the art of photography, giving a three-dimensional feel to two-dimensional images.
Shadows are likened to whispers, contrasting with the sun's loud exclamation, suggesting they are subtle yet impactful.
The piece suggests that shadows, while often unnoticed, are secret inspirations for romance and sleep, and they deserve acclaim for their contributions to our well-being and artistry.
The author expresses frustration with Medium's photo restrictions, which disrupted the original presentation of the piece, leading to its recreation.

Snapshots Prompt by Anne Bonfert / Shadows

Whispers

a shadow photo journal

Sunlight in Spanish moss, lacey draperies in trees, misnamed Spanish, misnamed moss — the native Itla-okla, tree hair, I prefer.

Without shadows, life, hotter, less scary and much less interesting

Sun-painted daggered leaves on asphalt

Feathery fragile fronds of wooded ferns

Squared off fence shadows tickled by trees in morning glare

Reflections water shadows dancing in ripples

Avenues cooled by afternoon shade

Chapel veiled in sacred adumbration

Bicycle waiting for the final school bell

Shadows are the flipside of us

Shadows are easy to not see unless they cause fright or provide relief from the heat. They just are, much like the air we breathe.

But, they also secretly inspire romance and welcome sleep. They give relief, refuge, and repose, usually without acclaim.

Shadows also give depth to your photography, transforming a two-dimensional image into three dimensions, giving layers and interest to what’s flat and humdrum. Shadows add drama to photos and to life.

While the sun is a full-throated exclamation, shadows are a whisper.

I encourage you to take your camera and search for whispers.

Note: I created this piece before the recent and unfortunate restrictions Medium placed on photos. When the changes automatically applied to the unpublished piece, the poetry was skewed far to the left, making the piece look catawampus. I deleted it. This is the recreation.

In response to this Shadows prompt from Anne Bonfert:

Sometimes Sharp and Clear, Sometimes Completely Hidden — Your Shadow

It’s always there but not always visible

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