Santa Claus and the Myth of Childhood

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Once upon a time

When father winter came

There was the distinct possibility

That instead of revels and one last cold indulgence

He might take you away in his sack never to be seen again

Back when we were able to admit to ourselves

Exactly how long seven years was

If that was all you got

Back before we swallowed the lie

That angels protected children

There are times and places where our little darlings drop like flies

And giving them one last round of meat and sweets

And a poppet

The hold by the fire

Doesn't seem like too much

If you can manage it