Escape from Shallot Restless lady, Busy weaving, Alone, enclosed, And fretful, anxious, About prophesied ruin. Heed not Hearsay curses, Imagined evil, That will slay you, If you dare spy outside. Your mind Binds you Faster than guards, Or the thick walls You labour behind. Rise up! Look out! At the world resplendent. None can impede you, If your will remains. Be easy Be gentle Step to the window, See what awaits you, And walk towards the door. Maura McHugh Some thoughts on ‘The Lady of Shalott’ by Alfred, Lord Tennyson.