Inside These Walls

The mood is set by the unflattering glow of fluorescent lighting, the deflating numbness of beige walls and the pervasive smell of microwaved food. Faces tired and spirits drained, unaffected by insincere morning greetings. Outside these walls the sun shines and a gentle breeze blows on tree dappled parks, smiling faces and chirping birds. Friendly chatter. Unexpected laughter. So close, yet so very far.

Inside these walls, conversation resembles English, but is its own nebulous language. No one outside these walls speaks it or would begin to understand it. Hours are spent discussing things of no importance to anyone outside these walls. Hours more are spent working on projects of little impact beyond these walls. These walls are made of concrete and iron, impenetrable to the thoughts and notions that lie beyond.