Time stood still, it seemed to me
the cracks, the filth, the dreary atmosphere
all that remains of what once was the most feared place
was left untouched, the richness of its past
preserved, so we all can share the stories
that these stone walls once obscured
Behind the bar of a dark, cold cell
eyes closed, I stood there quietly
shutting out the noise of the coming and goings of other people
I tried to listen
I tried
I heard nothing
but the sound of my own thoughts
What kind of life would it be
to be confined in this place
with no one to talk to
but these walls
to be stripped off my name
and in its stead be given a number
Silent prayers
of men who did their time
"When will these gates open to set me free?"
But they knew the answer
Looking out the barred windows
they find solace in hearing
the raucous call of the gulls
