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A mist hovers over a lake surrounded by trees
Photo by BalazsKovacs on Depositphotos

In my barracks is a mural of life unknown
A place filled with mystery and trees full-grown
The animals hold the secret to freedom and hope
The ocean is calm with fish who are learning to cope
In a world that goes through many changes
The skies are filled with colors that are strange
The moon hangs over the telephone pole
Where we talk to loved ones and video call
The TVs are waiting on the wall
Silent unless you have a tablet or a radio
There is a water fountain by the exit door
One shower with gray floors
In my barracks there are tables for games
Benches for leisure activity and a whole lot of blame

Disclaimer: The views in this article are those of the author. Prison Journalism Project has verified the writer’s identity and basic facts such as the names of institutions mentioned.

Whitney Turner Tyson is a writer incarcerated in Arkansas.