The Laughing Cauldron

The Laughing Cauldron

Steam rose like whispered tears,

The cauldron giggled at my sorrow,

Her eyes were pools of midnight,

I felt my sadness melt with smoke.

Even the shadows joined in,

Dancing on the cracked floor,

I wanted to leave,

But her laughter held me still.

A spoon floated through the air,

Stirring dreams into nightmares,

I tried to hide my face,

But the fire found my eyes.

Smoke wrapped my arms,

The floor hummed under my feet,

I laughed at myself,

And wished she would stop.

A jar opened its many eyes,

And winked in understanding,

The walls bent and shifted,

The cauldron sang louder than fear.

I tipped the last cup,

Steam rolled over my hands,

The shadows joined me fully,

And I became a ghost of laughter.