House Edge, etc.
 
By
 
Bryn Sullivan

​
 
 
 
House Edge
 
My host hands me a token now
And tells me to sleep well,
“But know that there are demons here
All cunning, dark and fell.
So take this boon and don’t forget
Yourself in soothing slumber
Beware the beasts who roam these halls
By goodness unencumbered.”
I give my thanks and watch him leave
Then latch the door in haste
Inspect the room, ensure it’s safe
Secure for sleep’s embrace.
 
                     ⋆☾⋆
 
Disturbed in rest by faintest touch
Soft breeze caressing hand
I groan then gasp, then bolt upright
To see a mole-sized man
Run cross the room and to a hole
I paid no mind before
My token strapped across his back
I dive down to the floor
He vanishes but I don’t quit
I thrust my arm right to the pit
Inside that crack, far as I fit
Just as it comes--
A knocking at the door.




The Sea Intervenes
 
A daughter stolen, bound
I rage but cannot reach
My heart on land
Taken by Man
Lives in captivity
 
Till blight arrives and hunger drives
Green fishermen to sea
I watch that Man rig sail and net
Then hunt with savage glee
 
I flay and thrash till naught remains
Except an iron key
Worn once on cord around the neck
I now send with a plea
 
Return to me
Take back the furs
He stripped from you and yours
Teach them to swim
So they can meet
Their family past the shore




My Brother and I Kill Jesus
 
In white robes every year
Up until we split and run
Trade altar wine for beer
Still I look back fondly
On each strange and smoky day
Twin guards with candle snuffers
Solemn Knights of Tenebrae
 
 
 
 
 
​
Bryn Sullivan is an artist, writer, and small talk enthusiast from Upstate New York. Her work is forthcoming in Belladonna’s Garden.