When you left this room, <br />or a room somewhat like it, <br />stepping into the light <br />you were dazzled by the sudden brilliance, <br />only gradually coming to terms with it. <br />Now, overwhelmed by the darkness, <br />by the stillness, dazzled still <br />by the light you learned to take for granted, <br />(impossible in this quiet room to see <br />what faces you) you grope for a chair. <br />The thought of turning back passes briefly <br />through your mind, you refrain <br />from opening the curtains, knowing, <br />telling yourself, the moment will pass, <br />the after-image fade, the echoes <br />of outside be absorbed in the silence. <br />Be still in the dark, <br />listen to the silence, <br />understand <br />this room was waiting for you.<br /><br />Paul Hansford<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/like-going-into-a-dark-room/
