A Matter of Equilibrium

I surveyed the lower shelf of the bookcase, seeking a systemic way to organize the sprawling cluster of oversized hardcovers. Several thick volumes leaned precariously at a forty-five-degree angle, threatening to slide off the polished wood. Rather than rushing to push them upright, I assessed the distribution of weight. Beside a stack of magazines lay a heavy brass owl figurine, likely placed there purely for decoration. Using both paws, I carefully slid the metallic bird forward across the shelf, wedging its solid base firmly against the outermost spine. The books settled instantly against its flank with a dull thud. Order and equilibrium have been fully restored.