Frankenstein and columbine,

fairy wings and witch’s hat,

elf and goblin, hunchback hobbling

find their way up to my mat.

Doorbell chime then fearful mime,

each unique in front porch light,

masks and capes and scary shapes

“Give or feel the vampire’s bite.”

Lollipops and acid drops

nougat for a tiny hag,

apple strips for painted lips

drop them in the booty bag.

Ogres, orcs, a ghost who walks,

painted infant spooks parade,

demons, imps and cheeky chimps

fearlessly my door invade.

All too soon the mellow moon

lights an empty late-night street,

children dreaming, planning, scheming,

for the next year’s trick or treat.