Night of the Scorpion

They came like swarms of flies, They buzzed the name of God, They searched for the scorpion

The poem describes how peasants gathered in large numbers (like swarms of flies), repeatedly chanted God's name, and searched for the scorpion with candles and lanterns. They did not call a doctor or leave quickly.

True

The poem clearly describes the father as 'My father, sceptic, rationalist', showing he was both doubtful of superstitions and believed in reason, yet ironically tried every remedy available.

Every movement made the poison move in mother's blood

The poem states 'With every movement that the scorpion made his poison moved in Mother's blood, they said.' This shows the peasants' superstitious belief about the connection between the scorpion's movement and the poison's effect.

Curses and blessings, Powder and mixture, Herbs and hybrids, Paraffin and match

The poem mentions that the father tried 'every curse and blessing, powder, mixture, herb and hybrid' and 'even poured a little paraffin upon the bitten toe and put a match to it.' Cold water is not mentioned.