Free the dog by the River Bank

The river-stream is running fast
the banks have burst, the stagnant pool
has muddy liquid oozing roun its ditch
The dog hits the mud, then the stream, then the leaves
it springs and runs up and down the bank,
enjoying the freedom that the park can bring


For us, it's hard work waling the slippy path
the high field releasing streams through the trees
the elm, the birch, the stately oak, the republican ash
but the springer jumps, claws gripping never failing
It is sheer enjoyment, the best use of energy
Then the park is gone, it's back on to the pavement
Pass the shops, the cars, the people, the noise, the bars


Finally back home to a well-earned treat.


Draft version 1.0, 7/3/2011. Please do not copy or cite without author's permission.