Ill Contentment

Contentment Island, Connecticut. A favorite site for the 19th century American painter John Kensett. Even in his day, it was already an enclave of the very wealthy, one of whom was a major patron of his.

I visited this place in 2005, jauntily not noticing the myriad signs warning off those who lack sufficient funds to enjoy Contentment properly. I strolled along the shoreline, minding my own business. I was able to snap a few pictures before the private security guards descended upon me, interrogated me, and finally escorted me back to my car with a stern warning never to return.

Yet here I am once again. Memory requires no permission.

©John P. O’Grady