Where Did You Get That Idea?

No one doubts a ghost’s existence
Like a ghost. Every ghost has been
Mistaken for a revenant at some point,

Instead of just another thought,
Another phrase, often enough
Compounded of several more

Of various ages, even
Various far-flung traditions.
Often, the most calmly composed

Thoughtful persons best acquainted
With ghosts can tremble at them.
Surrounded by her favorites,

Emily Dickinson noted
The hairs on the back of her neck
Still rose with each fresh encounter.

Every ghost knows it’s not a ghost,
And yet all pass through walls, and yet
All pass through skulls, and yet none move.