What Sets Man Apart From Beast

The mind of man defines his self
Thought separates him from the beast.
For rationale transcends all else
So with reason was man bequeathed?

Nature adjusts its balanced scales
Predators thrive upon their prey
Quarry decays in mankind’s trail
While intellects cloth, does sadly fray. 

Conceit within sees simple creatures
Instincts supply for lowly needs.
Hunter, hunted, duelling features
Equal basics provide life’s creed.

Assuming nature has mans own evil
Perceptions mirror his within.
No other beast shall cause Earths’ upheaval
‘Twas humanity first committed sin.
 
Smart man can plan tomorrow’s time
Consciousness learns from lessons past.
Hear and heed are two peaks to climb
Strides from missteps are often last.

Meek swallows will defend their nest
Grace transforms toward obstinacy 
But repose rewards a fruitful quest.
Vengeance just grasps humanity.

It’s man that fights a thousand wars
Pleas to ignorance seldom thrive.
Nature’s pursuits have righteous core
A pair for death means life survives.

The mind’s a mask of cunning guise
For closed minds, know not how they feast.
Heavy footsteps can cause demise
And what sets man, apart from beast?
Copyright © | Year Posted 2018

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

Lindley Avatar
May 21, 2018 at 7:03 AM
A great and fine creation for me to find this morn. I love meaningful, well conceived, and executed poems like this one my friend.. Bravo!! A fav......
Woods    Avatar
May 21, 2018 at 2:10 PM
You're too kind Robert. This has sat on my laptop for a year, And I found it again last night. It still needs tweaks.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace