Hanging Rope

We have an upcoming article in our Buddhist magazine dealing sensitively with the subject of suicide. The main message is that people considering killing themselves should change the direction of their lives instead. The author tells a personal story about walking into the woods with a rope, determined to kill himself, only to have his mind changed at the last minute. His new life path since that day has been greater than he could possibly have imagined.

The shot I'm looking for is of an adult holding onto a rope that extends up beyond the top of the photo to who knows where. It should be ambiguous whether the person intends to hang themselves or climb the rope. They should therefore look serious. No nooses, please. The photo should be beautiful, quiet, and evocative.

I found a photograph that perfectly fits the bill, but have been unable to get a response from the photographer about licensing it. I won't share it here, as I don't want to be accused of ripping off his work.

The samples I have shared are the closest things I've found otherwise, all not quite right in one way or another. The first one is too impersonal and abstract. The second isn't bad, but the suit makes it look too much like a business stock photo, plus I wish she were actually holding the rope. The third would be great if it weren't for the confusing water and the fact that he is obviously being lifted up.

Good luck, and get in touch with me if you have any questions. Thanks!