"Do not carve the frame in haste, for the body will remember the hand that shaped it. Take wood that has listened long to wind and shadow, and bend it gently, as one persuades rather than commands. When the hollow is made, stretch the skin across its face while it yet holds a breath of life, for dead hide lies silent, but living skin will answer when called. Draw it tight, though not to pain, and bind it fast, whispering to it as it dries, lest it forget its former song. Set the neck as one joins bone to body, firm and without doubt, and thread the strings as veins laid careful, each one knowing where it must sing. Then leave it awhile in stillness, for such an instrument must come to itself, and will not suffer to be hurried. And when at last you pluck it, do so as you would greet an old companion returned from a long and troubled road - for it is not merely made, but awakened, and it will remember whether you were kind."
released May 1, 2026