Overnight Guest

Sometimes, even the Devil is a welcome visitor when you're alone...

The Devil came at dusk again

And spent another night

I smile and nod his way

Silently sitting, always grinning

Across the quiet room

In the big stuffed chair

Sleepless night awaits us both

A good host, I offer tea

 

He never says a word, you know

Watching me watch the moon

Reflected on pond's mirror

Through screened window

As it makes its querulous trip

From east shore to west

Together we wait for daylight

In good company both

 

We are old friends, he and I

A good host, I offer cakes

 

In darkest part of night

Cool mist dulls moon's reflection

As hoarse crickets sleep

And I ponder his purpose

Knowing his foul business

I sit privileged by his visit

To sip special blends of misery here

He cannot find at home

 

Gathering cloak he stands to leave

A good host, I offer to go with him

 

He shakes his head, still grinning

And steps through door at dawn

With promise to visit soon again

When he needs a good night out

Reviews

[Fabian G. Franklin]

Playing host to the devil. Certain I've done that at one time or another. More often, it's the lesser demons that I entertain. I hope you are well. F.

[Bubo]

Indeed, do we invite him in? Does he feel us? You have written a fab piece.........full of thoughts and images, you, being the good host, and the devil I feel playing with you, almost waiting for something..........great great write, but you are a great writer.

[An Ordinary Woman]

...and u r a good host ...just sayin' :)

[An Ordinary Woman]

Wow!!!!

This is a totally diff style than anything I've read of you! I like it! You did soooo good!

But on a more serious avenue, it still has a down beaten nod to it. I wish far more for you than that. But the poem is remarkable! A favorite. Definitely.