Hidden escape,
guarded by glass
Follow cracked stones,
heed all warning
Withered gray walls,
hold nothing back
Lingering doubts,
hinder the free
The gateway calls,
the brave may pass
View from a back window at a Confucian Temple, Beijing China
Photo by: c.b.w. 2005
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This shot was literally taken through a window, which gives the image an interesting texture. In some ways, the “fuzz” reminds me a spirit in the midst of choice – stay within the safety and peace of the temple or venture beyond the doors.
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c.b.w. 2013
Wonderful!
Thanks!
I love photos of doors and gates that hide their mysteries. This is a great shot, and the words are perfect, as always.
Wherever I go, I take pictures of doors! They are so mysterious and tell a million stories. I love that!
Lovely poem, and liked your comment beneath, which came like a really useful afterthought – the spirit about to choose.
Thanks.
The concept of choice has always been a favorite theme to write about. Images like these always get my muse thinking!
Nice poetic response to these gorgeous red doors!
Thanks!
I just love the color – that shade of red was all over China.
the mystery of that door and what’s on the other side………..? You have a talent for these poetic lines!!
Thanks!
Something that always stood out to me was the cement block in front of the doors. An accident or a lock?
Love that mysterious mood!
That “mist” was a sheer accident, but I love what it does to the image!
The photo reminds me of the original Kung Fu series. There’s a sense of serenity about the place, an air of mystery, which was expressed superbly by your poem.
Most of the temples I visited had that feeling. It could be in the middle of bustling Beijing, yet it was quiet and peaceful within the walls.