WHAT'S OUT THERE IN THE WOODS?

I was looking forward to getting away, going off to my cabin,

Thinking it was time to relax, reading and hiking along the trails.

The drive was pleasant; autumn was in the air, breezy and cold,

Leaves falling from the trees, a change in seasons, what’s waiting for me?

Late in the day as I arrive here in this most beautiful, peaceful place,

Unpack my things then stand outside staring out at so many trees.

The sun is going down on this small town, the woods are in front of me,

So much darkness under these trees that have lived here for years before me.

Before it’s late, I’ll take a walk; these woods of mystery seem to watch me,

A whistle in the air, could be anything, quiet sounds of birds, wind in the trees.

Better head back as darkness will soon be, gather some wood, a whistle again,

Listen as footsteps are there, I can hear the crunching of twigs and old leaves.

My imagination, I don’t know as I lock the door, something more is out there,

There’s a fear in me as I close my eyes; there it is, a whistle in the night,

What’s out there in the woods, I believe it’s now at my door.

          Keith Garrett