“Behind Closed Doors: Unraveling the Emotional Depths of J.K. Durick’s ‘Lockout'”
In a world where the chatter of laughter and learning has been replaced by the eerie hush of lockdown drills, a vivid narrative unfolds—one that captures the haunting atmosphere of modern classrooms in crisis. What happens when safety protocols become a familiar rehearsal, but the stakes feel all too real? In this evocative poem, we delve into the experiences of students huddling in their classrooms, grappling with every parent’s greatest fear—a world that forces them to hide in silence instead of engaging in the vibrant exploration of their youth. The juxtaposition of a seemingly idyllic spring day against the backdrop of tension paints a poignant picture of loss—loss of innocence, normalcy, and the casual ease of being a child. So, let’s explore how these haunting reflections resonate with our collective consciousness and what they reveal about a generation caught in a paradox of preparedness and vulnerability. LEARN MORE.
The blinds are closed, the doors locked, blocked,
lights are out, they huddle in the corner, for once
literally hiding in the classroom, they talk quietly,
