avatarJosh Lonsdale

Summary

The text is a poetic reflection on the inner turmoil of a domesticated wolf-like creature during a full moon, juxtaposing the wild instincts with the constraints of a civilized life, and hinting at an impending transformation or uprising.

Abstract

The poem "Full Moon" by Josh Lonsdale delves into the conflicted psyche of a creature reminiscent of a wolf, who is torn between the wild call of the full moon and the domesticated life it leads. The creature, symbolized as a wolf, grapples with the societal expectations that keep it leashed and bound to promises of security, represented by a "lifelong bone." As the moon turns blood red, the creature feels the pull of its primal nature, preparing for a night that the "good book" prophesies as the end-times. The poem suggests that the creature is on the verge of embracing its true nature, possibly as a werewolf, amidst a world where survival of the fittest prevails and where "flesh-eaters" lurk, driven by their base instincts. The final lines culminate in the realization that there has never been a better time to embrace the wild, primal self, hinting at a transformation that is both inevitable and liberating.

Opinions

  • The author conveys a sense of despair and entrapment for the wolf who has succumbed to domesticity, viewing it as a betrayal of its true nature.
  • There is a critique of the false promises of comfort and stability ("lifelong bone") that civilization offers, suggesting they are illusory and stifling.
  • The poem reflects a longing for a return to primal instincts and the freedom they represent, as seen in the anticipation of the "good book" prophecy and the transformation into a werewolf.
  • The text implies a disdain for those who choose to ignore their instinctual selves in favor of a sanitized, civilized existence.
  • The author seems to celebrate the idea of embracing one's wild side, especially in the face of societal norms and expectations.

Full Moon

Full moon rises and there’s none more despised than the wolf who stays at home.

Compromises his time, leased and leashed to the false promise of a lifelong bone.

But the moon is spilling blood tonight and the noose is ever-pulled skintight his future never looked too bright he fetches his old flashlight for the good book says in this long night the end-times are a-coming.

Better check that these teeth are set right better check that those eyes hold sight better check that this mask is on tight for the flesh-eaters wait by your campsite, moonlight found them an appetite, for the good book says might is right and these clogged veins are a-drumming.

And the thought comes splitting night as a tomahawk whistling in full flight,

There’s never been a better time to werewolf.

© Josh Lonsdale, 2020

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