Elemental - Sharon Donovan

[Lawrence Robinson]

Elemental

The dog in the manger cannot, 
	in his anger,
Stem the tide of happiness
	which ebbs and flows…

Polishing pebbles on the shore
Pulling crumbs of loneliness
	from the empty pantry,
Penetrating cracks in the dry earth.

Not with growling or snarling or bared teeth
	can it be kept at bay.

Happiness comes unbidden.

A whistle may entice it, the sweet smell
	of a proffered treat,
An encouraging gesture, a pat on the head…

Even a savage breast may be soothed
	by its elemental music.

	- Sharon Donovan