Koi: A Modern Folk Tale

Legendary and beautiful, Margery and Sheldon Harnick have captured the endurance and perseverance that koi fish symbolize through remarkable photographs.

Recurrent themes in legends surrounding koi are overcoming adversity and fulfilling one’s destiny—often being rewarded by being turned into dragon fish. Creating their own version in which the gods have noted how much pleasure derives simply from observing the prismatic beauty of the koi, the Harnick’s have utilized photographs and haiku to strengthen these tall tales.

The union of photographs and verses show not only the transformation taking place, but the remarkable beauty of these creatures in a way that most have never seen, cultivating a charming and satisfying combination.

Sheldon Harnick was a poet and lyricist best known for his collaborations on hit musicals like Fiddler on the Roof, She Loves Me, and Fiorello!. Mr. Harnick won three Tony Awards and the Pulitzer Prize in Drama. Margery Gray Harnick is an accomplished actress, dancer, painter, and photographer who has been exhibited in New York City and Long Island.