Each impression of this edition is slightly different due to the unique application of the persimmon stain. Kakishibu is a traditional Japanese dye/paint of deep amber color which comes from unripe persimmons that have been fermented and aged for more than 2 years. Kakishibu is a traditional dyeing method using the discoloration caused by oxidation of the fermented juice of unripened persimmon fruit containing strong tannin. It also reacts to sunlight, so the color changes slowly with time and sun exposure.
In 2000, Rick told the story of The Hawk of Achill:
"An Irish epic inspired this series of images. Fintan and Cessair, Noah's granddaughter, fled the flood to Ireland. They were the first people. Fintan was an Eagle, Falcon and a Salmon. Also known as the Blind One of Assaroe, Fintan lost his eye to the Hawk."

And also in 2000, Rick's observations:
"Around here—the coastal Pacific Northwest—red tail hawks are so thick that I will look up and there’ll be one just looking right down at me. They’re auspicious. They’re eavesdroppers. I think they’re quite special. They are cautionary: warn of impending danger. If I’m about to run across the road and I see one, I start looking around. They remind me to be vigilant."