Seashore: the Tiger and the Fish
You're a tiger in the jungle, elusive, strong and free;
I'd wondered how I'd meet you, for I live in the sea.
And though I'd dreamt that one day soon I'd be no more alone,
That it is you my heart awaits I never could have known.
I've seen the waters far and wide, the shallow and the deep,
I've swam with fishes just like me but none could my heart keep.
I've met the sharks, the dolphins too, the turtles and the rays,
I've been to every inlet, every cove and all the bays.
I've even met the gulls who soar, who freely roam the skies,
They tell me nothing's there for me amidst their woeful cries.
And so I travel aimlessly, evading many threats,
From predators and jealous kin to massive human nets.
I find myself quite lost once more, no longer in the sea,
I'm swimming now in waters fresh, I think, where could I be?
But not much time permits to pass, I must keep self aware,
I've narrowly escaped the grasp, the claws of great brown bear.
This bear it seems will not give up, he swipes and swipes again,
I tire now and lose my strength, I fear I've met my end.
Then all at once, it seems to me, the danger is no more,
I'm rescued now and safe again thanks to a mighty roar.
This roar it bellowed loud and deep, and it had kept me safe.
I wondered who could be the one who'd rescued me, a waif.
As I look up I see above two golden eyes like fire,
A steadfast creature watching me, in orange striped attire.
This beast he has the largest fangs and claws - sharp like a blade,
And yet, as I look into his eyes I just am not afraid.
A moment froze, we both are still, our spirits now connect,
His weapons borne are meant for me, for I he must protect.
The sun it sets, we've spent the eve our hearts entwined in song,
And yet we know the truth draws near, it mustn't be prolonged.
For you, my dear, you dwell on land and I swim in the sea,
And how could you or I change lives? It simply cannot be.
As I depart to swim away I feel I cannot cope,
But then a thought has dawned on me, and now I feel some hope.
For how we met was not by chance, and we are all we need,
The land it meets the sea year-round; only once was my heart freed.
Copyright © Elaine Ho | Year Posted 2016
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