The Animal in Me

The Dog in me lies curled into an embryo

sleep stolen bathed in an

unattended duvet, twitching legs

and tail. Dreams of infinite

scent marks, reading

informative urine and faeces.

The Cat in me, schizophrenic

daytime child purring for food

when not sleeping, chasing spiritual

prey which becomes reality

while the chosen slaves are dreaming.

The Bovine in me walks the grasses

without complaint, donating

precious liquids intended for long dead

offspring. Standing to sleep devoid of the feral

dreams bred out of me and lying

down in digestion.

The Horse in me has given up

the right to wander plains of Mongolia

and African grasslands. Allowing servitude

to dominate existence.

The Ape in me lurks at sub-cutaneous

level dictating emotional reaction to

aggression; greed; empathy. Recently

departed, he threatens to return

every single day.