By Sonja Armstrong
Gather my friends, I’ve a story to tell
Perhaps about something you think you know well.
Those things that are lurking this time of the year!
They’re regarded with uncertainty, suspicion, and fear!
But what you don’t know, might come as a shock
Not quite as macabre as Alfred Hitchcock.
You wonder where witches and warlocks come from?
Are they born green and warty? Scary or hohum?
Do they all ride on brooms? Yes! What about those?
Are they gifted with branches that fly you suppose?
I happen to know the answers you seek.
And today I’ll be giving you a wee tiny peek.
Now all babies are babies when born into this world.
It’s coming of age when their magic’s unfurled.
When most tweens and teens are dealing with zits
These sorcerers turn from prankster misfits.
Deep into the forest they trek with their mothers
Learning spells, and some hexes, alongside one another.
Assume that would be ghastly? Terrifying to watch?
Nightmares an adult would chase down with some scotch?
I’ve heard it’s quite lovely, out there in the woods
Where young would-be-witches are making their goods.
Now onto those brooms we were talking about
I promised to tell you, I’ll get there no doubt.
I’ve heard transportation is what they learn first
So if ever in trouble they can leave with a burst!
But choosing a broomstick is not how it goes
The wood for the broom chooses them, don’t you know.
First comes the staff upon which they will sit
And then all the twigs that make up the broom bit.
Fireflies swirling they light up the night
Next thing you know, the youngsters take flight!
Loving witch mothers watch with love from below
As their babies turn green and warts start to grow.
Now if this is true, that’s for you to decide
But next time on a hike keep your eyes open wide!
I hope you’ve learned what you might not have known
About these fine people before they are grown.
Perhaps there is more, some things I’m not sharing?
Perhaps in the forests I’ve just been more daring?
How is it I know? Have I seen such a sight?
Come see for yourselves on All Hallows’ night