In this painting I pass into the next existence in my sleep, in my bed and happy to be free!
The story I am recounting happened when I was living on East Block in San Quentin State Prison—the institution in the painting. I did not want to live any longer. My family attempted to convince me of the value of living no matter the persecution & injustice I was living! They only managed to delay this however until my pending release. I went directly to the Bridge and tried to jump. Not succeeding, sitting in the back of that SFPD squad car knowing mine could have been a death of ‘blissful bunk freedom’ I thought, “had I done the right thing in that cell alone smelling salt air & serenity?” Over government, religion and family objections, I wouldn't be the political prisoner I am today! That makes this painting my most personal truth! Since I know I’m going to perish in prison. When I die it's going to be a good death because it will happen in my bunk.
