Part 4/9:
Dining in San Quentin is a stark reminder of the prison's brutal social codes. Inmates eat segmented by race, with every mealtime serving not just sustenance but a test of survival. Incorrectly seated or stepping into the wrong territory can initiate conflicts requiring forceful resolution.
As the sun sets, silence envelops the prison during lockdown—a stark contrast to the day’s chaos. In this stillness, inmates are left alone with their thoughts, heightening mental strains and fueling paranoia. Reading, engaging in hobbies, or occupying oneself is vital to stave off the abyss.