A villanelle for Halloween
I see through lace, masks as they knock - that time of year for trick or treat, but I alone hold keys of lock. Though due, I’m rivetted with shock that strangers expect me to greet - I see through lace, masks as they knock. I dim the lights, think that might block their view inside, intention, cheat, but I alone hold keys of lock. I used to hold some bits in stock - a pack of biscuits, chocolate, sweet; I see through lace, masks as they knock But grandchildren my only flock, though alien feet would step from street - but I alone hold keys of lock An hour, on watch, I count the clock, but sure in shadows, eyes won’t meet; I see through lace, masks as they knock, but I alone hold keys of lock.