"In Nell's Clutches" Inspired by The Haunting of Hill House:

In Nell’s Clutches

Nell has a need,

a need you unwittingly filled.

Nell has a need

to be invited, included, needed.

Nell has a need

for a friend.

You invited Nell in

and gave her access

to a new home

to a new past

to a new purpose

to a new friend.

And not just any friend,

a friend that needed her.

Once Nell knew

how good it felt to be filled,

for her needs to satiated,

Nell latched on

with no intent of letting go.

Her friend said no,

and you kicked her out.

But Nell laughed.

She wanted to stay,

even if you didn’t want her to.

But your revoked invitation

made room for a new invitation,

an invitation from the house

to stay forever.

Nell laughed,

and she stayed,

permanently tied to the house

and to your memories of the house.

Nell still has you in her clutches,

and she will never let go.