Ode to a Hare

Furry, long-eared little hare
Sitting on the meadow there.

Silent in a field of grass,
Dreaming as the clouds o’er pass.

I have seen you hop and run
Underneath the summer sun.

Reflex sharp, you twitch and turn,
One more day of life to earn.

Full of fear, but quick to act,
By most carnivores attacked.

Dodge and dart, then circle back.
Sprinter’s speed you do not lack.

Leaping with a forceful lift
From your feet so strong and swift.

When exhausted, off your stride -
Quickly find a place to hide.

You have outrun bird and beast
Looking for a tasty feast.

Stamina though, not your strength,
Fearing chase of any length.

Predators indeed abound;
Eagle, fox, the man, and hound.

Threats you face are strong and fleet,
Hungry for your tasty meat.

Never one to win a fight,
Neither are you very bright.

Timid and faint-hearted too,
Scared of being served in stew.

What a fearful life you lead,
Mercy do you beg and plead.

Jump and scamper, carefree nap –
Not so wary of a trap.

Curiosity’s a curse.
Rash behavior makes it worse.

Consequences seem so cruel
For a reckless, careless fool.

Showing off before a crowd –
Boastful, arrogant and proud.

Arguing gives you delight –
Sometimes through the day and night.

Sometimes with your wit prevail.
Likely though, your plan will fail.

Chatty, happy kind of bloke,
Friendly to the other folk.

Liked by everyone it’s true.
Loyal friends are very few.

Feeling you may be the least,
Jealous of both fowl and beast.

Furry, long-eared little hare –
Often we don’t see you there.