The Gapstow

Only recently has it dawned on me the reason for my fondness for this

bridge in central park – outside of the fact that it is beautiful and

has been brilliantly painted and photographed many times. It is

constructed of schist, a medium-grade metamorphic rock. Many years ago

(ages ago) upon turning 18 and traveling though New York on the way to

Princeton, New Jersey, I proudly made my first legal foray into a

liquor store and boldly ordered a bottle of something. I uncorked my

brew at a friend’s dorm room at Columbia University and within

minutes, I was talking about and being fascinated by the most

ridiculous of things. Following my friends to a function on campus,

I noticed (no, became insanely fascinated with) the steps leading up

to some building. I identified the rock as schist (I think I had just

had a course in geology, the history of the earth, or why dinosaurs

are dead). As I sprawled on these steps (I think in the rain) I could

not understand why my friends didn’t realize the significance and

beauty of this metamorphic rock. I still love this rock, so maybe it

wasn’t just the alcohol. Comments and critique welcome.

great..8

Gary,

Many thanks.  I see I need to be following your landscapes.  Thanks for the introduction.

Dear Wayne, this image of Gapstow bridge is very beautiful. The sky looks like a stained glass window, made using various pieces of different colours. I think I know why you like shists so much, maybe because they have mica (moscovita) and it shines in small dots.

At the beach I usually go bathing, I'm surrounded by mountains... all shists, predominantly black colour. These rocks are broken into sheets and they seem to carry glitter :) I hope to see another image during warm weather when green foliage will cover the bridge. Great colours. Kindest regards, Laura Marco.

Best regards

PDE

Hi Wayne,

  Beautiful creative scene that reminds me of a stained glass painting.  Amazing work!!  Take care, Patsy

Laura,

Thanks.  Good to know my passion for this rock isn't so abnormal.

Pierre,

Many thanks.

Patsy,

Thanks.  I understand why New Yorkers love this park.