Closet of Terror

Tucked ‘neath blanket, flashlight gripped tight

A small child once more faces the night

Eyelids twitch, palms sweat, fingers tremble

There! Corner of eye, fierce creatures assemble

They lurk in the lee where shadows abound

Nooks and crannies where monsters are found

Fetid breath on cheek, wind from a hole

Rancid death smell, flayed bark from a bole

Find a new spot, a place more hospitable?

My corner is shadowed, my fear inimical

Shuffle feet, wring hands, ponder possible fate

What beyond night for my corpse doth await?

Blazing red eyes, insatiable hunger not sated

Wicked claws, fanged gums, meat appreciated

From floor where didst fall from sole of shoe

Stuck there this morning by dawns early dew

Errant leaf, stark veins crimson and narrow

Arises like phantom floating from its barrow

Wind sighs across loose house boards

It’s moaning the voice of grotesque hoards

Ghostly fingers feather light, leaf grazes my cheek

Swallow pounding heart, pulse rapid, outlook bleak

Will I be whole in morning when mother arrives?

Smiling as she kisses my cheek, love in her eyes

Slumber eludes me, dire harm a fearful anticipation

It’s only the closet, not a gateway to damnation

Pray for sun’s light a surcease to fear

Moms loving arms harbor a safety so dear

Tomorrow night once more to the breech

Can I sleep with you Mommy? Tearful eyes beseech