Only animals
Shelter through fear
Where the glass feels safe
Though transparent,

And such crime
Of keen observation
Is what cage seems best
When they’re wrong –

A prison at home
Still enjoyed
As its keepers patrol
Soiled grasses,

Cleaning after my mess
Among playthings
For remaining amused
While I pant

Or will howl by doors
Never locked
But stay closed instead
Using latches

For these daily escapes
Seeking freedom
If endangering waits
Very long –

All alone with moons
Under lampposts
Beneath painted skies
Much like ceilings

From jagged reliefs
Running sideways
Across whitened facades
Overhead,

Proving clouds more fake
Than this instinct
To secure each need
Raging shyly

Just below thick skin
Almost furry
Since our hair implies
Nature’s code

Will exist inside
Yet suppressed
After lifetimes spent
Being studied

If expected bars
Bring fulfillment
Despite handicaps
Blood didn’t choose.

• J. Pigno