I've Been Away Too Long

I've been away too long.
Gossamer webs glisten with dew
the screen door hangs askew
The view from the porch is wrong.

I've been away too long.
Nobody recognizes me
An empty rope hangs from the tree
The musty odor is so strong.

I've been away too long.
Rusty hinges creak and groan
Moss is growing on the stones
Lining the path as I walk along.

I've been away too long.
My key won't turn the lock
I break the window with a rock
The alarm screams loud and long!

I've been away too long.
The policeman comes and drags me out
The neighbors come to stare and shout
"You should have stayed gone!

You've been away so long
Your wife and kids have moved away
They didn't think they'd see the day
You'd ever try to belong.

You've been away too long!"