Under the Microscope
Perceptions
After the bell rings, the doors slowly swing open.1 No immediate rush.2 Today will not differ from yesterday, last week, month, or year.3 For some, the routine is all they will know for the rest of their lives.4 Routines are essential in a place like this.5
They give an early indicator of potential tension.6 As the individuals emerge, their initial anonymity diffuses.7 All dressed in similar clothes.8 Grey.9 Like their appearance; the result of being locked up in a cell without sunlight.10 Grey tops, with loose, baggy11 trousers and invariable trainers.12
Slowly, there is a recognition of the established characters. All emerge with their individual bucket containing overnight faeces and urine and move towards the waste disposal area. There is no embarrassment, nor even a recognition that, as they emerge from their cells odours are wafting around them. Odours of their own making, occasioned by the smell of sweat, fear, poor diets, lack of exercise and institutional habit.
