Dog

somber eyes most time
and most days spent
in half sleep and chase
or half sleep and sound
until sound wins the wake
and jolted back and
bounding off the couch
to whatever the source
of the barking sound

if not sound then scent
a wretched little imp
who cracks the whip
and teases and taunts
through blades of grass
through rabbit haunts
or plated food or
crinkle crackle of any
old plastic bag in which
case scent and sound
do-si-do to intensify
the thrill, the prospect

the opposite of when
melted butter fur pools
in its heavy weight
and heat upon comforter
to tuck in and pin the
sleeping neighbor within
the cover and sheet

the opposite of when
canine potential halts
with focus and unnatural
patience while man
follies in brushing and
grooming a spirit meant
for sweat and mud

the opposite of when
the mere sound of the
deep snoring breath and
touch of the shiny smooth
coat can lure one into
their own state of half sleep