the doorman stands
just outside
perhaps he doesn’t look like your idea of a doorman
but your curiosity draws you closer
he moves and puts his hand on the door
“what’s inside?” you ask
the doorman opens the door
smiles and steps aside for you
inside you see
green fields
smoke rising in the distance
buildings in ruins
peaceful cottages
flowing streams
menacing gray shapes moving in the distance
you hear faint song
music and laughter
cries, sorrowful wailing
an overpowering silence
someone is walking along a deserted shore
you look closely
it is you
beckoning
come in
come in
you look back to the doorman
for help or advice
he has lost interest
slouching against the wall
he waits
his work done
no one can help you now
The Ace Hotel Notebook 