By Christopher Bird
At the end of the quiet alleyway the shadows surrounded an old wooden door.
Beyond the relentless rush of the crowded city streets twilight fell slowly over the hidden side street.
The city pursued money and status in gaudy everyday colours and gestures.
Great glass banks had been built where once there had been small houses and parks.
The city’s face was unrecognisable.
There in the silence nestled a secret.
An elderly couple walked gradually along the pavements.
Hand in hand they passed toward the shadows of the street.
The sky was darkening.
They were slow and weary and yet they approached the door without trepidation or anxiety.
Beyond the door they could hear something.
” Listen dear!” whispered the woman to the man .
They listened close to the door.
” Birdsong” he replied in a hushed voice.
