“On Pigeons (And Second Glances)”—the winning entry in the Summer Contest for Nonfiction—left a lasting impression on judge Peter Trachtenberg. In his assessment of the piece, he described it as gross, provocative, and thought-provoking. The story explores the complex relationship between appetite and revulsion, delving deep into the world of pigeons and the narrator's dark thoughts. Read on to discover the compelling narrative crafted by Allie Leach.
She’s naked. Her skin is covered in goosebumps; it is a thick, pale yellow, hints of pink glow through her body (those are her insides), as do hints of white (those are her bones). She has a long neck; when stretched out, it’s thin, but when pushed back, looks like a Shar-Pei. Her eyes are black moons circled in yellow. Her legs are skinny and long and pink and snappable. From her feet dart white, sharp nails.
From its first sentence, the story captures the reader's attention, immersing them in a vivid and detailed description of a pigeon. The writing alternates between tender and shocking, showcasing the complex emotions and thoughts that the narrator experiences while dissecting the bird.
The narrator's fascination with pigeons goes beyond mere curiosity. They obsess over these creatures, wanting to understand them on a deeper level. They yearn to see inside the birds, to taste them, and to know them intimately. The narrator's desire to dissect a pigeon leads them on a journey of self-reflection, questioning their motivations and their boundaries.
Through the process of dissecting and eventually eating a pigeon, the narrator grapples with the ethical implications of consuming animals. They question the morality of their actions, considering the revulsion and disgust they feel towards the act. This introspection raises broader questions about the relationship between humans and animals and the moral responsibility we have towards the creatures we consume.
As the story progresses, the narrator's view of pigeons begins to shift. They encounter a woman who cares deeply for pigeons, feeding them and providing a safe haven. This encounter challenges the narrator's preconceived notions of pigeons as dirty scavengers. They start to see the beauty in these birds, appreciating their unique characteristics and behavior.
The experience of dissecting and eating a pigeon ultimately prompts the narrator to reevaluate their relationship with meat consumption. While they don't immediately give up eating meat entirely, they express a renewed understanding and empathy for the animals they consume. The story encourages readers to consider their own relationship with meat and the ethical implications of their choices.
Allie Leach's "On Pigeons (And Second Glances)" is a thought-provoking and introspective exploration of our relationship with animals, specifically pigeons. The story challenges preconceived notions, raises ethical questions, and offers a unique perspective on the complex emotions that come with dissecting and consuming animals. It serves as a reminder to approach our interactions with animals with compassion and to reflect on the impact of our choices.
Hot Metal Bridge is proud to publish Allie Leach's winning entry in our Summer Contest for Nonfiction. We thank all the participants for their submissions and look forward to continuing to showcase exceptional nonfiction writing.
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