Horror Haiku: The Taking Tree
A boy at his new "home," exploring the land and critters that lurk
The Taking Tree
“Are we almost there?”
Been hours in this old car–
box heavy on lap.
Only trees blur by
as we approach our new “home–”
house Dad could afford.
“Ugh, what a shit hole.”
“Son, watch your language, and help.”
Dropped the final box.
Plugged in console
“No internet for two weeks.”
“Kay, going on hike.”
Middle of nowhere–
critters, my only neighbors.
Growth covers strange trail
I push past brambles–
a tunnel of branch and thorn,
luring me to black.
Walking for hours,
can’t tell if it’s day or night–
disoriented.
A pin prick of white
beckons me like a mother–
each step she brightens.
Skin ripping from push,
clearing reveals ancient tree–
older than the house.
Stomach groans, throat dry.
“Climb little lamb, eat my fruit,
drink from water pooled.”
My eyes so heavy.
“Lie down, rest weary mind.”
Her trunk, a bosom.
Awake to starlight,
tight sensation on my chest,
Pop! The screams of bone.
Roots slither like eels,
around everything but neck–
one wriggles down throat.
Bark scratching organs.
Can’t cough or choke–bile sprays.
Ringing. Lightheaded.
“I’ve been so thirsty,
Just like you,” her voice whispers.
“Thank you, little lamb.”
Watch out for that tree 👁️
-Mat
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Such a clever take on "The Giving Tree." And honestly, after what we've done to trees, I wouldn't blame them for sucking us dry. :-)
ohh the imagery of the bark reaching inside and scratching, i loved how this turned out with the accompanying art! visceral - great to a have a lil dose of horror 🌳🩸