On winter’s edge where shadows creep
When the naive lay fast asleep
A dark shape stirs the icy air
Trudging out from his hidden lair
His rattling chains, his wicked grin
He seeks out the hearts that favour sin
Through moonlit streets he stalks the night
a dreadful, devilish horrid sight
Children whisper, eyes wide with fear
Of sharpened claws and hooves that near
Of a forked tongue and a burlap bag
The smell of which would make you gag
Some siblings will sleep the night in shifts
Knowing tonight is not one for gifts
Ears straining and nerves racked
Listening out for a visitor on Krampusnacht
Drink and be merry but please remember
Heed the bells on the 5th of December
Listen to their message and note their warning
Or you may be taken by the Krampus come the morning
