Page 25 - Contrast1991Spring
P. 25
The Chimp
I know why the chimp laughs
from his cage in the zoo
He thinks me a fool
He knows I hate work schedules
and detest bras
that it comes naturally to chew open-mouthed
elbows where they please
that feet were not made for shoes
nor arms for sleeves
that cars are too harsh for ears
and smog causes tears
He understands when the adrenalin rushes to my breast
and I want to strip myself of civility
running screaming back to the cool jungle
Chimp, I envy you your iron bars.
From behind them you can
thrash and throw
put bare knuckles to ground to go-
or not.
-Angela Tremain
20
