“(T)he path not taken,” suggests a pivotal choice or a missed opportunity. The composition shows a path leading to a house, with the figure standing at a crossroads, highlighting the moment of decision. The viewer can sense the weight of the decision through the figure’s stance and the split in the path, inviting reflection on choices made or not made.
What is noteworthy about this work is at least three very different interpretations come to mind:
1. A morally compromising sexual liaison is called off at the last moment to save the integrity of two different marriages.
2. Most societies strongly encourage heterosexual relationships through laws and sanctioned culture, but some choose a different path.
3. We all have these situations in the past where, for whatever reason, we did not consummate a sexual opportunity. Yet we look back on it and wonder where it might have led.
The work was first, many times, computer-generated from an initial rough sketch. Then, it was redrawn in detail on a computer graphics program. Finally, pastel chalk and marker were used to complete the composition.
The frame is colored in faux bronze-- a third prize for those who justly deserve it, but hesitate a bit too long!
