Seperation
^hike to an unnamed lake.
August 20th 2025,
It’s been 85 days since I left my hometown Kodiak Alaska for the 2025 Uyak bay and Bristol bay Gillnet seasons. While growing up, the departure for fishcamp meant certain isolation from friends. There was no internet, no cell service, just a radio phone that cut out every 8 minutes with a static crackle. Satellites now parade through the sky and we have the illusion of connection like never before. Access to the internet doesn't make life much different as i thought it would. I’m often too exhausted to take advantage of the social media which is supposedly designed to make us feel more connected to one another. When I can access instagram and other platforms, it's not the communication with friends that I'm drawn towards, but the stacking minutes of reels which distract from monotonous labor. It is the same everywhere. Being physically isolated doesn't change my inclination of use towards social media. Still, the biggest benefits of internet access outweigh any negatives. I’m able to post things I like and edit videos. Best of all, I streamed season one of Stranger Things last month and can listen to any music I want. It’s been a good thing, and when I occasionally have the energy to call someone it is very positive.
Unfortunately there hasn't been much time to make progress on creative endeavors as I've been working many hours all summer. Abraham and I continue to hatch schemes for the coming winter and we are as excited for our isolation as ever. I've ordered all the ceramic supplies I will need and they are on route. They have been on route for several weeks and will be many more weeks. Our food supply is looking very good and we are continuing to strategize electricity usage and which spaces we can adequately heat. The process of getting things shipped here has been arduous at best, but it will all be worth it for a few quiet mornings waking up to the sunset and crunch of snow under sparrows talons. Thank you for taking an interest.
Best regards from Uyak Bay,
Micah Fields