Our conversation about the jargon of elevator design and maintenance inspired listener La Donna Ourada to write a moving poem called “Terminal Landing,” about how riding a metaphor can be a metaphor for life.
This is part of a complete episode.
The gaping doors before me call me in
Transition waits beyond this bare hallway
This trav’ler lingers, anxious to begin
Yet also hesitant and fain to stay.
What lies before me – opportunity?
Or maw of beast to ferry me away?
A step, a turn, a pause to choose my dream –
My finger poised to punch my destiny.
A breath, a gasp, a wait for the doordwell.
With sigh, ‘tis time to shed this earthen chore.
No fear of fiery fiend from lower hell.
Perchance a hope of rest on yonder floor.
With shudder, chariot begins to rise.
What terminus awaits me in the skies?
