by Nick Gisburne
A serpent sold your soul to me, for change.
How truly unremarkable you are.
My other pets are sordid, striking, strange.
You thrill me more than all them, by far.
Behind your quiet eyes I see a spark,
A smouldering. It speaks to me of rage,
But nothing, yet, illuminates the dark.
How patiently you wait to break your cage.
Perhaps you know your moment will arrive
When I, or those who follow, least expect.
Be careful. Live, my little one. Survive.
A fugitive is painful to protect.
I promise you the shelter of this place,
Unless you stain my honour with disgrace.
