Worms crawling together under the earth,

A muddy swamp, full of moss and stones.

Mushrooms sprouting out in fungal birth.

Deep in the marshes, mystery is sown.

The colors of autumn leaves are nature’s art.

Initials of lovers carved into bark;

Arrow bursting through an etched heart.

Sunlight fades, the day starts to grow dark.

Wondering which way to turn?

Searching for wooden signs pointing home.

There’s no way out within this twisted fern!

Further into the whistling woods I roam.

Shadows envelop me in a velvet embrace.

Beneath a sliver of moon and scattered stars,

There are no footsteps for me to retrace.

Hidden thorns threaten me with scars.

Obscured in gloom are the creatures of the night,

Bats, moths, and owls bask in nocturne’s delight.

Read the Second Place Poetry Contest Poem by clicking here