Reason A. Poteet Poet Rhyme

Sharpening the Dread

Snakes’ own hypnotic trait, 
rare hood sharpens the dread.
Bullies, they snake across,
rising, their ground they stand
.....Warning wakes and
.....shakes your nerves,
.....an even break, he
.....stakes his claim
.....as you quake.

Thrill, that snake is scared too;
he sees you as the threat.
Venom Is his defense;
extreme caution is yours.
.....Back off, kill the
.....will to run
.....calmly fill that
.....bill which keeps the
.....bully still.

♡Like0

Share Poem

---

Post Comments

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.

Please Login to post a comment

David Crandall September 17, 2025 at 12:54 PM It does sound pretty scary! I enjoyed reading. Reason A. Poteet September 17, 2025 at 1:21 PM Thank you, David. Many snakes have hypnotic effects but the eyes and the hood of the cobra render me unmovable.

Danny Derden September 16, 2025 at 3:42 PM Your poem coils with tension and precision—each line strikes with purpose. The rhythm mimics the cobra’s rise, and the language is sharp, deliberate, and evocative. “Cobra’s hasp / clasps fear’s eyes” is especially brilliant—visceral and poetic. A tightly wound triumph. Reason A. Poteet September 17, 2025 at 1:23 PM Thanks, Danny, for your positive, supportive comment. After contest, I altered the form somewhat for flow. I appreciate your time and effort in my behalf. Except in zoos, hope to never meet a cobra.