He steps onto the stoop
In the cool mountain air,
Glances at the night sky,
Are there witches to scare?

Four years old, now not so sure
If he’s the monster tonight
Or if real ghosts and goblins
Will give him a fright.

A parade of costumed kids,
From fairy-tales to scary-tales,
They yell “trick-or-treat”
From behind frightful veils.

Latter at home he spills his bounty
Spread out on the floor,
Mom says, “Have a taste tonight,”
Two small pieces, no more.

She pulls off his costume and
Lays him in bed, turns off the light.
He lies awake and wonders
If monsters still roam the night.