There’s a charm in black and white photography that transforms the most ordinary moments into extraordinary narratives. An exemplar is a photo I discovered, capturing an old man riding a small bicycle along a road in Behrang, Perak.
The image’s black and white filter delivers stark contrasts, underlining the blend of modernity and antiquity. At the heart of this composition is an elderly man, perched atop a bicycle seemingly too small for his weathered frame. His skin is etched with deep lines, each crease a testament to a life steeped in labor, wisdom, and survival.
He peddles along the middle of a tar-black road, seemingly in no rush to get anywhere. His relaxed demeanour suggests this is part of his daily routine, a quiet testament to his resilience and continuity. The journey, perhaps, matters more to him than the destination. His clothes, though simple, seem comfortable, mirroring the peace he seems to have made with life’s challenges.
On either side of the road, a backdrop of dilapidated shophouses adds to the timeless aura. These two-story structures, relics of a bygone era, are slightly asymmetrical, their facades blemished by peeling paint and boarded windows. The beauty in their decay serves as a tangible link to Behrang’s past, imbuing the scene with a sense of history and charm.
Yet, these structures are not lifeless. Signs of their continuing existence shine through, from potted plants peering out from the crevices to the silhouettes of figures through weathered windowpanes. These details remind us of the tireless, quiet endurance that permeates everyday life in this small town.
This photo serves as a gentle reminder of the simple beauty that permeates the quotidian in rural Perak. It highlights the profound serenity that can be found amidst decay and change, and in the resilience of an old man who, with each peddle on his small bicycle, champions the art of living one day at a time.