When the muses need inspiration, they know a secret place far away from the artists. They gather among politicians and war hawks watching their demons shimmy inside. The muses wait.

Eventually, an artist ventures into this place seeking riches, fame, or power. The muses devour their soul as a kindness.

JR Walsh is the Online Editor at The Citron Review. He teaches creative writing at SUNY Oswego. Find his writing on itsjrwalsh.com.