Essay: The Monsters Are Back at the Door

Again. That time of year again. The body stiffens, the bones grow cold, and we are standing helpless inside the door awaiting the arrival of our monsters. Each year we perform this ritual, following the Druids in their annual practice of calling forth the terrifying spirits of the age in an effort to dispel them. These are not children—no diminutive, sweet-voiced ghosts and witches reaching timidly for corn candy. They are the real monsters of our times, and they are not so easily appeased. Brace yourself. The moon is hidden in the clouds, the...

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