Sara's 'Snakes, Scorpions and Owls Contest
April 5, 2025
Listen for the rustling sound of the beady-eyed belly crawlers deceitful serpents slithering on the ground, flicking a two-forked tongue and hissing. They should be heeded as a dire warning when tempting us as if to say, "Ssssssss..." they whisper, "Come hither." Through tall meadow grasses and across lawns and garden soils they leave a trail of body wriggles as rippled footprints. Lying quietly in wait until we're near to take a bite when startled. They inflict pain... physical and if a creature of duplicity, like Satan, known for his trickery, being bitten will have a different connotation They can be found sidewinding across desert sands seeking shade. But warm sands hold another who commands... the scorpion who claims the desolate land as its home and is not willing to share. The stinging tail of a crawling eight-legged one is a weapon the serpent must consider. Cleverly it lurks in treacherous shadowy places trying to avoid the wrath of the desert Kahn. The serpent and the scorpion, reptile and deathstalker dancing together until it ends in an embrace but not one of sweet surrender They race to combat, a battle to choose a winner, Venom from a stinging tail and a stabbing bite One the victor, the other a feast called dinner But beneath the moon's golden glow, carefully perched atop a saguaro Is the sage one who boldly watches, biding time with its keen eyes. An owl lets the stinger and hisser fight until the flap of its widespread wings indicates his hunger has waited long enough to be sated... something both should dread. Take flight great owl, when day gives way to night Good hunting to you as you choose your prey Dive with pinioned wings and your fearful screech Pointed beak at the ready to pluck on the flesh Will your choice be serpent or scorpion, the feast you dine upon tonight?
Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.
