Spider With An Unsettling Grin

Looks can be deceiving, like a spider with an unsettling grin

Smiles too can be deceiving, as they can hide evil and sin

Like the man with the puppies, sweets, and unsettling grin

He beckons you over, as he strokes his beard-covered chin

Promises he's kind and cares, flashing that unsettling grin

Your trust is what he wants, but his handshake hides a pin

Remember, looks can be deceiving, like a spider with an unsettling grin

*

Thanks for reading. This is my first attempt at ekphrastic poetry. I was looking at some disturbing art (as you do) and came across this subtle masterpiece by Odilon Redon in 1881.

A symbolist charcoal drawing, this first struck me as odd for obvious reasons - it has 10 legs. Then I noticed that slight but very clear smile on the spider's face. Creepy, but very clever.

So I let inspiration take the wheel.

I hope you enjoyed it. If you did, I would appreciate it if you clicked the heart, left a comment or did both. I really enjoy finding out what people thought about my work. You can also subscribe to me.

You may also enjoy these other pieces:

An entry into the Uncommon Challenge:

Another entry into the Uncommon Challenge:

One of my many entries into the Quadru-Haiku Challenge:

You can also take a look at my other work here.