THE SECOND POETRY PRIZE WINNER –
SUMMER 2021
is SUSAN TAYLOR
of San Diego, California, USA
“The Wretched Lives of Straw Men”
Scarecrows are the scariest citizens of Halloween.
Their hollow chests protrude weeping willow twigs,
And their pathetic straw hats hide toupees of parched fire-ready kindling.
Ghosts and black cats are but dusty symbols
because the straw men
Have scraping, grasping arms and bony legs to chase down princesses and
pirates,
They despise these trick or treaters who tease and laugh at their wan Ray
Bolger faces.
The children don’t know the force behind captured witch’s brooms in the
scarecrow’s hands.
The meanest clutch devil’s pitchforks, for stabbing sagging jack o’ lanterns.
Run while you can, candy seekers!
Run!!! Quick, for the muffled footsteps of the Straw man is upon you.
This night you will regret your taunts.
Pull up the starry covers on your bed,
because it really is too late to make amends.
-30-
By Susan Taylor
About the poet:
Susan Taylor tutors English for “pin money” and pleasure, and writes for fun and distraction. She lives in San Diego, California, USA. and enjoys walking with her husband and their loving dog, Duffy. Sue belongs to a book club and she volunteers at an arts and crafts museum, works with foster youth, and educates others about gun violence prevention. She is mother to two adult children and will have a total of 5 grandchildren in 2022.
