Corvid

I have a strange affection for Japanese crows. They're monstrously huge, preternaturally intelligent, and have the most murderous-looking beaks you've ever laid eyes on. We're told not to chase them away from food or garbage, because a crow who sees you but once will remember you always, and it - along with several of its rookery - will have revenge upon you for your insolence.

There's a kind of purity in how primal they are.

Bamboo Lantern

Every year in early April, Nijo Castle in Kyoto hosts a night light-up of its sakura groves, including bamboo and paper lanterns made by local artists. This was my favorite sculpture of the ones on display.