Human Coyotes Poem by Long Tooth

From day of birth a howling ghost coyote,
Ranging 'Steppenwolf' of western plains,
A spineless cousin to more staid peyote,
Apex wonder drug of wild domains.

A lonesome cry expresses inner feelings,
Tempted now and then to run with pack,
Though dominance and harems are glass ceilings,
Focusing dim wit on what I lack.

First come, first serve is Nature's rule, not Darwin,
Burrow just a temporary rest,
Survival means my stomach can't be empty,
Endless sky the borders of life's test.

But kindness is a virtue I can't fathom,
Neediness is heart of daily fare,
Avoiding pain is Nature's only rhythm,
Ghost-like, when you need me, I'm not there!


Long Tooth
January 6,2016