how did we come to exist

inside the box

this narrow world

enclosing us

not even a speck of color

or maddening wallpaper

only blank spaces

was there some expert who deemed it proper?

rigid lines and harsh angles

and the hope of nurturing

we study these walls

contemplate their plumb lines

are met with blankness

in a plain room

tucked away

safe

silenced

stifled

as we think ourselves outside – Caroline A. Slee