Sunken place | Halloween mind games

In “The Halloween Cupboard Game,” the narrative unfolds around Pete and Lotti, a couple grappling with the changing essence of Halloween over the years. As Pete observes a dying jack-o-lantern, nostalgic memories of a time when children filled the streets with delight surface. Unlike past celebrations, where costumes and trick-or-treaters thrived, contemporary distractions, particularly social media and video games, have diminished the spirit of the holiday. Pete expresses his frustration over the current state of Halloween, lamenting that only two trick-or-treaters appeared, and he feels that people have grown indifferent to the festivities. This sense of disappointment is compounded by Lotti's dismissive attitude toward Halloween, which she views as childish and irrelevant. Their dialogue unveils their contrasting perceptions; while Pete longs for a sense of fun and adventure, Lotti, a lawyer, claims to deal with real-world evils and finds no thrill in masks or horror movies. In a bid to rekindle the Halloween spirit, Pete suggests playing the cupboard game—a childhood game meant to invoke fear. Lotti initially scoffs at the idea, doubting its ability to entertain or scare her, showcasing her skepticism towards her husband's efforts. However, as their banter intensifies, Pete proposes a wager: if he scares her, she agrees to stay married, but if he fails, she can divorce him and pursue a relationship with another man. Lotti reluctantly consents, setting the stage for a competition that has deeper implications about their fractured relationship. As the couple prepares to participate in the game, the atmosphere becomes tense and uncertain, encapsulating both the playfulness and the underlying stakes of their interactions. The story taps into themes of nostalgia, the evolution of relationships, and the desire for genuine connection amid the complexities of adulthood and societal changes. Ultimately, it reflects the struggle to balance light-hearted fun with serious realities, using Halloween as a backdrop for deeper emotional exploration.