By Jude Cipher

Deep within a forest shrine, a mysterious figure commands attention through chants, drums and elaborate rituals. In “Witch Doctor,” Jude Cipher paints a dark, dramatic portrait of a traditional spiritual practitioner whose perceived power draws people seeking wisdom, healing and protection. The poem explores the uneasy relationship between belief, fear and spiritual authority.

Shrine deep in the forest,
Lurking steep at a mountain,
Quiet by day, shouts late at night,
Sacrifices of a mysterious meaning,
Made always with a strong might.

His voice of sacred shouts,
Horrifying and strange,
Shakers and drums echo in the air,
Sounding ceremonial but strange.
“The gods are pleased,” he cries.

Dressed in beads and feathers,
Barkcloth and animal skins too,
No shame but pride he may pursue.
Widely open are his big eyes,
Used to serve you stares and glares,
Filled with anger mixed with sensation,
Full of creep mixed with authority.

In his black, dusty hands
Lie his sacred staff and shakers,
Symbols of power for honoration.
“The gods are satisfied,” he cries.

Oh, high and one with the gods,
Receiving visitors daily,
Pleading for wisdom, health, power,
In not less than an hour.
Hundreds and thousands have
Consulted the gods.

But why one with the gods,
With the crazy things visitors do
To satisfy the supreme beings?
One with the gods now needs the gods.
“The gods are impressed,” he cries.