From each cell the prisoners stared
drawing inspiration, hope, from their window
the outside world that they once knew
- had almost forgotten -
the wonder of freedom, wind and sun.

so they stared and dreamed of a new tomorrow
with shackles gone and doors unbarred
able to walk the earth freely
able to decide, yes or no,
able to decide.

Yet, somehow, release is to be feared
separation from the familiar
what has been known for
three score years and ten.
Life's experiences.

What lies beyond the walls is seen as fantasy
mistaken memory or the invention of desire;
longed for yet dreaded, put aside,
fearing to replace dreams
with reality.