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The Walled Garden Gate is written for Sadje’s What do you see? weekly prompt. The #158 prompt is to write something inspired by this photo by Mick Haupt.

The Walled Garden Gate is Open

by Lesley Scoble

Oh! The walled garden gate is open. 
I want to go in there and visit—
but… 

Why is the walled garden gate open? 
It is never open, is it?
Is it?

I want to enter—
adventure
into there—
but…

Hey! what does it cost?
Do I dare? 
Go there— 
get lost? 

Be bold! 
All told, 
the threshold is easy to cross — 
just step through—
but…

What shall I do? 
I’m not allowed.
I’m scared, 
at a loss,
and cowed herein,
to go
so far… 
in. 

Wherefore is it open?
Why’s it ajar? 

It invites
With a promise 
of sweet smelling herbs—
such as lavender,
evening primrose, and anise.
It is a lure
that perturbs 
me to plea:
How can I be sure?
The walled garden door 
is open for me?

I want to pass
through the garden wall
without doubt and fear—
and see
all that is hid.

But…

Will I Disappear?—
Like the other kids did?


Lesley Scoble    October 2022

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My thanks to Sadje #What Do You See for the photo prompt that sparked the inspiration for this poem!

Herstmonceux Castle, Sussex. October 2022

The walled garden, Herstmonceux Castle, Sussex. October 2022

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Lesley lives in the City of London Square Mile. An artist, actor and sculptor (her first ceramic sculpture won the V&A inspired by… Award). Scenic artist & book illustrator, playwright, (her musical play, Rapscallion performed in inner city schools and theatre school); TV dancer; Animator and illustrator for TV production. Set up Pinecone Studios Ltd and IIMSI Ltd drama and filmmaking workshops in London – producing award-winning films made by children.