What made the wolf of the tale of Little Red Riding Hood so scary? As a child, my father would read to me about the wolf, and the thought of such a beast terrified me beyond belief. I now see that as ironic, seeing as how my father could seem scarier than any other being on the planet. Yet, I had never once been scared of my father, and the idea of an animal able to blow down the houses on the poor piggies as well as being able to eat an old lady whole was horrifying.

That was just a kids story.

As I grew, I learned that not all wolves are big and scary. Some lure the young from their paths with promises of play and fun. Others sneak and stalk until a moment reveals itself that allows them to pounce. Most wolves, like the one in the story, prey on the weak, young, old, and stupid. Sometimes though, we do not see the wolves. They hid under a guise of sheep, and settle amongst the herd to eat at their leisure. These are the most fearful ones.

That is the truth.

I had long forgotten the lessons taught to me as I lay in my bed, covers pulled to my chin as my father read the aged fable to me. Forgotten was the fear of the wolf that pretended to be the grandmother and came knocking on your door offering friendship. That is why I did not see the sheep with the glowing eyes and snarling teeth.

That is why I am in his jaws.

~Rose Wyn De Beaumont.