Doing Time

Prison starts early. Sometimes before the sunrise. I eat the food left behind by rats. The scratching is loud until the bell tolls. It keeps me awake. I am grateful for each breath.

Let me tell you more here

I walk around Oxford Castle catching my breath. I will tell you secrets from debtors tower if you give me an hour.

Visit a locked up container and sit in a recreated cell from 1752. The same size and the same darkness. The difference is you get to leave.

Stays

Reverend Swinton walks past the window. He does not see me. He chooses not to look. Am I invisible in these rags I am left with? I call to him. He acts deaf.

I pray.

Hear the words I say to save my soul and stay here

Understand why my words may not be enough as I race against time to gain reprieve.

Judge for yourself if I even deserve it.

Oxford Castle Brighton Fringe