The Box

By Madison Boykin

Posted on December 1, 2024

Cover Image Title: Wonders

Cover Image by: Mia M.

Size: 4000 pixels x 3000 pixels

Classification: Photograph

Year: 2021

Fresher than fresh,

Crisper than crisp,

Cleaner than clean!

Oh, how pretty it can be…

You approach it slowly, 

Beauty alluring,

Your eyes are wide

The freshness can’t hide

What’s really inside.

I warn and warn,

Mealy maggots writhin’

My sweaty hands pryin’

So whatever you do,

Don’t open the box!

Oh, how dirty it can be

If you truly see.

The edges are sharp,

The wrapping is nice,

No wrinkles no folds-

No dents or stainin’

But watch for slicin!

And lice’n’mice’n…

Oh, how horrid it can be.

You ignore my warnings,

Your beauty of visuals 

Mute your ears to consequences

Your hands trace the sharp edge,

Unwind it like a flower

And with a tug,

The box opens.

Oh how horrid, 

What did you do? 

For now,

You’ll see it in your head

You’ll see it on your bed

Description:

“The Box” is a horror poem following the connection between the speaker and reader. The poem follows the themes of consequences and temptation. The concept is inspired off of the Greek myth of Pandora, in a more horrific and parasocial manner.

[ Writing Editor: Arya Varma ]