Paths: A Photo Essay of 2020

What a horrible year. While I traveled for much of the first two months of 2020, the virus loomed over everything since before Chinese New Year, when Singapore experienced its first wave. In March, the strict lockdown caught me by surprise, as I had felt we had already weathered the virus in Asia. The lack of preparation by Europe and America was enraging. My abrupt departure in May after two months of separation from my closest friends and partner on the island was painful.

Since then, living in California has been a struggle made worse by disruptive citizens who, encouraged by the President, failed to participate in the collective response. I have been housebound for most of this year because of their stubborn antisocial behavior. My wonderful friends, family, and the trips I make to the city and nature have kept me sane.

This year has felt like a miserable and isolating tour of the end times. For that reason, I’ve struggled with how to frame this end-of-year article. I’ve asked myself if I should do a conventional post focusing on a single subject, or tell a personal story. But for a year that has been so uniquely and personally painful, none of these options feel appropriate. Instead, I harken back to my school years, when teachers gave us assignments based on one word.

My inspiration for this photo essay: Roads. I’ve felt directionless for much of the last twelve months, so looking out on the roads I’ve crossed works best for a year without a destination.