The Underground

It has been two years since I studied abroad in London. That seems like forever and a half ago and it's weird to think that it even happened at all. One of the objects I have in my possession to help remind me that yes, I did indeed live across the pond, is a journal I used for class. The module was a creative writing course that used London itself as the main focus. I loved the class and loved the opportunity to write about such an amazing place. What follows is a small excerpt from that journal that I like so much I thought I'd share...

Taken by Mary Crotty

The Underground
(Originally written on 28. January 2011)

Within the grungy bowels of London, monsters rumbled and groan. Nothing can stop them as they crash through their long tunnels of concrete. Beware their many mouths as they slide open wide and engulf any waiting mesmerized passenger too close to the yellow line.

True heroes may stand on the gray concrete platforms beside the trenches of the beasts. The thick air wraps around them, smelling of leather and a slight hint of human sweat. Only those brave enough may step up to the painted line marked "Mind the Gap." Passed that, the platform falls away to deceitful metal tracks; the footprints of the behemoths.

All goes quiet and the wind gushes from the dark unknown, fluttering loose hair and newspapers about the concrete catacomb. A quiet hiss and squeak of metal-on-metal comes from the darkness. Two orbs of light, like glowing yellow eyes, appear first. Then the head of the beast made of a square metal frame and sheets of glass as it slides closer. Ever closer to the platform.

Quench the urge to pet the monster as it swoops by.  Everything begins as a blur as one can only see the white body and the red doors mixing together, creating the illusion of pink. The train slows, making the windows and doors become separate. Even the dirt can now be seen marking the worn-out beast as a veteran of the deep.

Finally, the train comes to a stop. With a hiss, the doors open, beckoning those stationed on the platform to step inside. Are you a hero here to force the modern Grendel to slumber? Or will you only be another snack for the eternally starving Tube?

****

Taken by Mary Crotty

It's short, and I think I like it mainly because it's fun to fantasize about everyday things. I guess this just gives you an idea where my mind goes when I had to wait for my train home. Truly, it was nothing short of an adventure.