By Steve Saulsbury
Ever since learning about his ancestor, the slave trader, Gary began exploring tunnels. Imagining a literal escape route: dripping candles, a creaking handcar on muddy tracks.
Little explorations at first, plunging his fist into a groundhog hole, hoping to touch a stub of wax. Then a natural cave, wishing for a scrap of Lowell cloth or a broken chain.
Pushing along riverbanks, dreaming of coded blankets. Gary imagined aiding travelers, guided by the North Star. A black rope tried to pull him back, whipping at his heels. The hiss of coins in a gunny sack.
Going Underground. Not perpetuating the past.
So powerful, especially in light of the way the world is moving.
Very descriptive and powerful!
Powerful words.