avatarDenise Larkin, BA (Hons)

Summary

"The Fox" is a poem that vividly depicts the life of a fox, from hunting and family interactions to the cycle of day and night.

Abstract

The poem "The Fox" by Denise Larkin paints a picture of the daily life of a fox, capturing its cunning nature, survival instincts, and familial bonds. The fox is portrayed as a vigilant hunter, a caring family member, and a creature that thrives in the darkness of the night. The narrative describes the fox's activities throughout the day, from basking in the sun to hunting for food, and finally, retreating to its lair as dawn breaks. The poem also touches on the impact of the fox's nocturnal activities on the surrounding urban environment, including disturbances to the local human and animal inhabitants. Larkin's work offers a glimpse into the wild yet structured existence of this often-misunderstood animal.

Opinions

  • The fox is personified with human-like qualities such as patience while hunting and a sense of community within its family.
  • The poem conveys a sense of admiration for

The Fox

A short poem about a fox

Photo by Qijin Xu on Unsplash

The fox stares with beady eyes Around the corner, he is waiting Clinging hopefully for the tipping Claiming the east To get to his lairing feast.

Food is his gem His family urging him Hunting Living in harsh And rash ways The fox will never lose a sighting When fighting to live his days.

Laying in the heated sun Sprawling his legs a wide He is sleeping for a while Resting before the mating Willing him to be.

The evening arrives He goes off with his family Gathering together Waiting, watching, listening For the peaceful night And the darkness Arriving imminently.

The howling begins The roaring within Disturbing the people Knocking over dustbins Awakening the street With their running Spinning, dipping, slipping, Cats screaming Hurtling about Playing a game With foxes Spying, fouling, sprawling And rowing.

The quieting finally arrives The sun is rising As daylight morning Delivers yawning.

Scuttling of foxes Scurrying away They hitherto a place Hiding silently Sleeping in their space Until the moon arrives And the fox learns His slinking, blinking, drinking, Timing Is how his life Will roll Once again.

©️ Denise Larkin 2020. All Rights Reserved.

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Animals
Poem
Poetry
Nature
Outdoors
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