Behind this door

Behind this door there lived a monster, a teacher and a singer in a church choir

Behind this door in an ancient dojo there was a demonstration of great skill, violence of history and art

Behind this door travel to foreign lands, Mozart, fine wine and culture was discussed.

Behind this door a girl awoke to a predator who trapped her in his clutches

Behind this door she couldn’t scream, make him stop, silence his torments, ignore the pain, ignore his body and his strength, nor comprehend

Outside this door I stand in instant recognition and tears

Outside this door I take a picture and remember the girl of eighteen

Outside this door I stand safe and aware

Outside this door the street looks different, smaller, full of life on a sunny Sunday afternoon

Outside this door I see a family restaurant of a young couple down the street, with their son three like mine

- by A.