The quays

The harbour quays have green stone steps that the midday tide climbs, raising boats from the mud until they float at their mooring ropes. Caleb's family gathers on steps beneath the house during the full evening tide, singing as lanterns begin lighting up around the harbour.

Look

4

Cool air carrying salt rises from the water, and the lanterns make long, wavering reflections across the harbour while the family supplies its separate vocal parts.

Custom

4

Other families sing the same evening tune from their own steps, and the sound travels around the harbour's curve, answering across the water.

In Chapter 4

4

Caleb first feels the unfamiliar melody here during the family's pause between verses and holds it back while continuing to sing the expected part. After the singing ends and the younger children are taken to bed, he remains seated with the water high below him and the melody still turning. He quietly leaves these steps to try the tune near the quay, and later returns uphill to the house while continuing it beneath his breath.

Sources

Wavirionthe quays
KindPlace
First chapterVol 1 · Ch 4