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The Key
1
Our new home
An old farmhouse
From more than two centuries ago
When patriots battled
Red Coats on the fields
Outside my window.
2
Up the stairs
To this secretive place
Finding dust and cobwebs
Peace, quiet and solitude
In this attic retreat
Away from the clamor and noise.
3
Legs draped across a rocker’s arm
Secluded away on this rainy day
My book in hand,
I find refuge in the stories
About others’ adventures
In another land.
4
Tucked in a corner under the eaves
Draped in a spidery shawl
A weathered wooden trunk
That’s suffered the ravages of time
Beckons me to take my leave
Of my far-off adventure.
5
Intrigued with what’s hidden
Inside this ancient chest
Hinges squeal as I pry the lid
To find a tattered black petticoat
And wrestled from its faded lacy folds
A small brass key drops to the floor.
6
What truths does this key hide?
I wonder as I search inside
And find faded indigo shoes
Leathery boots scuffed and worn.
A threadbare satin dress
Its sleeves shaped like bells.
7
Beneath it all,
A carved box with fleur-de-lis
For centuries concealed
In which the key finally resides.
Opens a world of wonder
Of things at last revealed.
8
Faded looping letters scripted
On fragile, crinkled paper
To My Dearest Selah,
How I’ve missed you.
All is well. I pray to see you soon.
Your loving Anna.
9
Secreted in a discolored crimson pouch
I unmask the treasure
Captured at the end of a delicate chain
A golden locket,
Its letter A rubbed thin
And worn by time.