ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the author draws on both first-hand experience and available literature to describe how flexibility, negotiation, and discretion can be used to foster and create pockets of space inside of the prison sphere that allows for moments of humanity. The author uses his own experiences as a prisoner to convey just how dynamic and intense everyday interactions and everyday living can be inside a prison. The paper argues that ‘carving out’ and creating space is vital to provide a brief respite from the chronic stress and relentless hyper-vigilance of prison life. Using the work of Erving Goffman to outline how different spaces can be ‘front stage’ or ‘backstage’ within the prison setting, the author argues that spaces within the ‘forward facing’ regime of the prison can be co-opted and repurposed by prisoners into ‘backstage space’ through prison officers and prisoners working collaboratively, if not covertly, with officers utilising their flexibility, negotiation, and discretion. The author discusses the nuance, subtleness, and complexity involved when prison officers choose when to selectively underenforce the rules, and when not to. Illuminating the serious problem of staff retention in the prison service, the author illustrates the value of ‘jail craft’ and how experienced officers develop knowledge and wisdom that can cultivate a rehabilitative culture.
