Jack-O'-Lantern

When I was a child, outside of Christmas, Halloween was my favorite time of year. I loved creating homemade costumes from rags to wear trick-or-treating in the neighborhood. And yet, for me, the most fun was sculpting the scariest pumpkin my mind could conceive. This was the only time I was allowed to wield a knife, and I reveled in it, turning carving into a dark art. Dad would drive me to a farmer's pumpkin patch and let me pick out a blank orange canvas to showcase my artistic talents. I'd start by cutting into the top of the pumpkin, as if scalping it to gain access to its skull. And with my hands, I'd scoop out its entrails, which felt mushy, gooey, slimly, and gross, as I gutted it to make my Jack-o'-lantern. Then with an eye for the hideous, I'd prepare to carve. Imagining its grotesque face, I'd start by gouging out its eyes, a deformed noise, and a crooked tooth grimacing smile. I'd proudly present my monstrosity to mom; who'd light a candle and stick it in my gargoyle, then set it on our stoop to guard us against any evil demons skulking around on this All Hallows' eve. (Free Verse) 09/05/2022 Fall Flavors Poetry Contest Sponsored by: Regina McIntosh "Carving pumpkins"