Precaution

the figure is receding in the painting
in a ghost tale by M.R. James.
oh no. here it comes again.

now it's calling your name.

it's getting nearer.
taking up the whole frame.
turn the page,

why don't you
and it's in your range
turning up all the lights

and quenching them, then.
read on if you dare.
as for me

when I'm out traveling anywhere
first thing that I do
is turn the paintings to the wall

to escape that view.

mary angela douglas 28 april 2019