Adonis Diaries

Noah’s arch of varied animals in our building?

Note: A re-edit of the poem “Chinchilla, hamster, guinea pig, and … (August 24, 2009)”. Since then, I desisted from sharing in the responsibility of caring for this family zoo.

I care for two dogs, Not my own

Cats, a chinchilla, a hamster, a guinea pig,

Two turtles, and a rabbit.

They are Not mine;

I care for them by default.

 

If I could dispose of Noah’s cargo

Then I’ll burn it down.

Nieces and nephews got attached growing up

To their favorite pets for a couple of days.

A few pets enjoyed longer friendship before grown ups moved out.

 

The youngest niece is still receiving pets as gifts

For her many real and faked birthdays.

If I could dispose of Noah’s cargo

I’ll start by tearing at Noah’s beard

Till this old fart bleeds.

 

Dogs can be forgotten for a couple of days;

They will stay cool and lick your hands:

They can always search the nearby waste bins.

The variety of rodents can squeal their head off;

I may gather now and then a few green leaves from my small garden.

 

Cats are a pest; they keep rubbing at your legs

And walking between your legs

Until you are ready to offer your own flesh for feed.

 

Turtles can be forgotten for months;

They will still be moving at a steady slow pace.

I have a mind of carrying my home or tent on my back

And roam the wilderness.

I might survive carrying my talisman on my back.

 

Someone else could feed and care for Noah’s cargo

If I were rich.

I don’t even get paid for all these hassles:

I am the default guy.

 

A few days ago I realized that,

In my isolation,

To whom else could I lord it over?

 

If I were rich

I’ll hire male and maid servants to care for Noah’s lot;

I’ll employ independent contractors for cheap.

If the hired individuals turn out not diligent and obedient,

As most of Noah’s cargo behave,

I’ll turn them loose.

 

They may howl or beg.

They can die of starvation.

I wouldn’t care:

They are out of my hair.

Note: I am skipping the story of my brother-in-law raising over a hundred chicken in our small garden: Just thinking of that insanity is totally depressing me