The Spirit of Summer in 86

Although I had an AI make this image, it is based on my old photos mashed together with pictures of Independence Hall. Philly locals used to be able to roam freely in the courtyard behind Independence Hall. It was a quiet little green space and there was something really lovely about that especially during the summer.

Back in the olden days,

Long before pandemics and patriot acts,

And barriers and barricades,

Two teens, resplendent in Goth-girl garb,

Took the train over Franklin’s Bridge,

To see friends who lived

Just past the corner of Second and South.

It was a good night indeed

When they neared

The Hall which once held the Bell,

And the clock struck ten.

Chattering happily,

They floated freely through the Yard,

(a lone guard wished them well)—

Destined to fashion caterpillars

From Chianti bottle candle wax,

Faces flushed from cheap beer

And the glow of their Youth.