Baboon



        I can leap from any height

        and land safely, as if the planet

        were a pile of leaves.



        Suddenly incensed, I scramble fast

        on all fours.  O the wicked heart!

        My jagged smile gleams



        because I carry weapons in my teeth.

        Because the leaves all blow away,

        I fight for more.  More life, please.



        This picking through bones and hair--

        I call it grooming.  I eat fleas.

        Come, my love.  We have yet to mate.