The Echoes of Traz

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