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The Animal Orphanage

Its the sight waft of rotting flesh That first hits you While the smartly dressed Smiling warden ushers you in, Through narrow turnstiles There are rows of enclosures A maze of them, a maze of the wild Its like a snapshot of danger A dangerous predator-laden savanna Danger enclosed Lions... You will hear their shouting matches Royal majestic roars Like cage competitions Even the females join in While one stares you down Sizing you up Like a piece of flesh (Well come to think of it...) Some males lie down Nonchalant Amidst the noise The leopard paces in its enclosure Waiting for its daily ration While the young buffalo Grazes nervously, Its enclosure next to the lions They have emergency exits Just in case... You will spot a Serval cat A croc, bored And nervous rare Sokoke cats Terribly out of place...

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Anne-Lise Andresen

Date: 3/28/2024 2:06:00 PM

- Life in captivity is the worst form of existence because every living being, whether animal or human, was created to be free - Unfortunately, all too often we come across stories of animals that end up spending their lives in chains or cages and never get the chance to experience freedom ... terribly sad - A great poem ... I hope it can open our eyes and see what is happening - hugs

Silent One

Date: 3/28/2024 11:31:00 AM

Your excellent poem is a poignant exploration of the moral complexities of zoos and the ethical implications of human intervention in the natural world. It challenges the reader to confront uncomfortable truths about our relationship with animals and the consequences of our actions on their well-being.. Powerful words my friend.

Daniel Henry Rodgers

Date: 3/28/2024 7:45:00 AM

Hello Marugu, your depiction of transported me into a world where the wild meets captivity. The scent of decay mingles with the anticipation of danger as wardens guide visitors through narrow pay-gates. Yet amidst the tension, glimpses of boredom and displacement emerge the complexities of confinement. Your poetic words invite reflection on the delicate balance between preservation and captivity, where empathy finds a place to dwell even in the heart of danger. - Blessings, Daniel

Tom Woody

Date: 3/28/2024 5:59:00 AM

All of them terribly out of place. I think we all share mixed feelings on the caging of animals, but mostly disgust, I think. Still, they fascinate. Awesome poem

Tom Woody
Date: 3/28/2024 6:08:00 AM

Glad to hear released. I once wrote an interesting poem on Masai Mara, from the viewpoint of the animals. Not sure I still have it

Marugu Mo
Date: 3/28/2024 6:02:00 AM

Hi Tom. This poem is a work in progress. The orphanage is a rescue center where they bring them for treatment, observation and tagging. Eventually they are released. The sokoke cats am not so sure though