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Life in Prison

Despite the fact that incarceration touches so many lives, the general public has limited knowledge of what prison is truly like. Portrayals of prison in the media are limited and often sensationalized. These are stories that shed light on the realities of prison life.

Subscribe to Inside Story to receive exclusive behind-the-scene looks at our best stories, as well as author profiles and other insights.

A wooden mannequin holds three colorful alarm clocks
Posted inPerspective

The Daily Schedule That Helps Me Survive Prison

by Jared Kirby September 5, 2023September 1, 2023
Water treatment plant in Flint, Michigan
Posted inPoetry

ill-filtered water

by Jamil Ruffin September 3, 2023September 1, 2023
Sign for SCI Mercer in Mercer, Pennsylvania
Posted inPerspective

After Two Decades, I Finally Transferred to a New Prison

by Jeffery Shockley August 31, 2023August 22, 2023
A man sits on the floor of a prison cell with a shaft of light beaming down.
Posted inArt & Illustrations

Prison Isn’t Black and White

by Chastyn "Nova" Hicks August 16, 2023August 17, 2023
Red paint drips abstract painting
Posted inPerspective

When Blood Spills in Prison

by Troy Chapman August 9, 2023July 21, 2023
Exterior of Folsom State Prison, California
Posted inQ&A

Q&A: Life Lessons From Nearly 60 Years in Prison

by Jessie Milo August 8, 2023July 21, 2023
Two elderly & disabled prisoners walking down a prison hallway
Posted inPerspective

It’s Time to Forgive and Free Older People in Prison

by Antwann Lamont Johnson August 2, 2023July 21, 2023
The letter X is spray-painted on a brick wall
Posted inPerspective

The ‘X’ On My Cell Window Marks an Invasion

by John Johnson August 1, 2023July 21, 2023
A prison guard tower surrounded by razor wire
Posted inPoetry

The Brink

by E.D.H. August 1, 2023August 21, 2023
A blue and black butterfly in flight
Posted inPerspective

A Butterfly Effect Behind Bars

by Lanard H. August 1, 2023July 21, 2023

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