(written October 2025)

Halloween is neither trick nor treat when your

inner demons raise their head.

No one hears silent screams.

In a world full  of noise, everyone

pretends to be deaf.

Behind blackout blinds, monsters do not sleep under beds.

Only those wearing tints fail to see

eyes that no longer shine.

When irises turn from blue to grey, only sorrow you will find.

No one  gazes at their reflection and says,

“This is a good day to be depressed.”

Halloween is neither trick nor treat,

but it is okay not to be okay.

Copyright © 2025 Maggie Watson
All Rights Reserved