YEN

The spire never stops humming. Even at three in the morning, on the calmest sea, you can feel it through the deck. Locals call it the winter song — they say the songs are made on the island and the island writes them back. I haven't decided which is true.

Made port at yen three times this season. Picked up two demo tapes from a kid who calls himself a producer; one of them sticks. The harbour stays warm late, even in the cold months. Lanterns up the spire don't go out, not on any night I've been here.

Will return when the next batch is ready.