Shut the Door

William Pillin

Shut the door and shutter the glass:
remain alone within these walls,
and if some knock who nearby pass
be silent to their calls.

Bolt the door until they go
for we are poor, with nought to share;
who rudely bring us wind and snow
may steal our meager fare.

For they are many and we are three;
and who calls there from wintry mist?
the hand that fumbles at the key
may pound with iron fist.