Dammtorplatz

I’m at the mercy of my watch, the train is late! I must hurry now! Across the steep pedestrian bridge and through the park, into the city. Wait a second, what happened here? Where’s the bridge? Why does the park start right behind the railway station? Did I get off in the wrong place? No, the old trees and swamp cypresses on the ramparts are still there! I’m in the right place, but now those tall trees are standing right in front of the station. All of it is new and still familiar. Or was it always like this? Is my memory playing tricks on me? I must hurry, I’m thinking, but the lovely calm of the park engulfs me. Blossoms everywhere! It’s spring. I’m sitting down on the long bench in front of the station. I think I’ll take my lunch break now, right after breakfast.