Keys have always captured my imagination because they open worlds.
A world of wonder as the lid of a treasure chest
releases with a baritone creak.
A secret world, finally accessed by the inheritor
of an eccentric relative’s safe deposit box.
A world of memories when I come across the key to a
house (and marriage) long since demolished.
A freer world the moment iron bars slide sideways
to discharge an inmate.
Most of the time they admit us into routine living:
turning deadbolts of front doors, starting cars, and protecting valuables in
gym lockers.
People are lockboxes too, denying or permitting
entry depending on the solicitation.
Waiting for that uniquely inspiring teacher to move
our potential.
For that singular love to unwind our individual
complication.
For that particular chemical to trigger addiction.
For that one insult to unleash our fury, then our
fists, then our firearms.
And at long last, for that unifying cause,
compelling us to let loose our collective best impulses before Karma changes
the locks, and humanity is shut out altogether.
: - | >
*The
Face Zone is also a live show with music.
