Suspension Bridge Patrol

Scaling the metal joints of the desk lamp felt like climbing a suspension bridge. The dual steel springs stretched with a faint squeak every time I shifted my weight, dipping an inch before springing right back. Instead of backing down, I wedged my boot firmly into the hinge notch and grabbed the upper tension rod with both hands. A quick counter-balance, one solid tug, and the arm locked into place beneath me. From up here right under the warm glow of the shade, the desk spreads out like an entire city grid. Night watch is officially underway.