Residents Quest

Through the kitchen, into the lounge
this bare house screaming out its nakedness

With paint stricken walls, I cast my eyes to the floor
the carpets ripped and torn, plain and dusty

I sought out a bathroom and with my bare feet on the cold tiles,
a chill runs down my back

As I gaze into the murky waters of the basin,
my own lack of reflection calms my insecurity

The sound of creaking floorboards echo as I wander down the passage
tip toe, my heartbeat is the only thing left to listen to

As I approach the staircase, my hand reaches out to grasp the oak banister
with the wind whistling, I make the assent

As my fingertips brush over the cold, wet windows
I gaze out, wondering about a life out there

I reach the highest room, once utilized, now just a lonely, empty memory
my feet cushioned by the damped floorboards

I took a deep breath
the mildew taste in the air was sour

I never knew how I got in
and I’ll never know how I’ll get out