Sheet Size: 7" x 16"; Image Size: 4 1/2" x 13 1/4"

The Old Iron Bridge in Frankfort, which crossed the Kentucky River, was a favorite thoroughfare for pedestrians. During rain showers, it has been said that many couples could be seen strolling side by side under their favorite umbrella.

In those days it was hardly customary for proper men and women to display affection publicly. With the rain dancing on the pavement, the umbrella, and the river below; lovers were free to utter the affections of their soul, arm in arm, unchastised by the culture which childishly rebuked them, appearing mute and huddled together for safety beneath the sonic shield of their umbrella.

Why was the Bridge so special? Perhaps it was the act of crossing over which unconsciously appealed to them. Leaving one side, walking across a span while the water from above joined the river below until the other side was reached.

Lover's Rain is really about crossing over. Although the Lover's are fixed in time together on the Old Iron Bridge, in reality they must have continued to walk.

In memory of Vincent Benjamin Howard III, I see the man kissing the lady goodbye, leaving her with the umbrella and crossing the bridge to the other side alone, ahead of her. Standing on the other side, invisible and unheard, because of the intense rain, yet still calling for her to walk the path with courage and not turn back even though she may not see the end of the bridge.

Ben Howard passed on March 21,1991

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