parent says don't do that
child asks why not
parent leans against counter
thinks about it
you'll go to Purgatory
child asks what is that
parent replies...
Purgatory is haze
grey obscurity
harsh sulfuric smoke
searing flashes of fire
bursts of putrid gases
that blind and choke
thick scorching air
something heavy and smothering
in the air
something violent and hurricane-like
fear-begetting a panic
intangible shadows and shapes
cry out in anguish and remorse
beg for mercy
the all-devouring silent noise
amplifies
pain exchanged for retribution
crowded host of lost souls
sea of hands
clasped in piteous gestures
of mercy-begging
writhing forms
no longer identifiable
generic faces in the throng
whose hoarse cries
measure agony
required penance...
that's purgatory
so don't do that
child says
ok
