To Minnie
An Ode to the Cat
O Mistress of the house
What thoughts dwell behind
Your golden amber eyes?
And what dread notion lurks that
bids you stalk the unwary bird,
And scatter carelessly the bright feathers?
You walk on velvet slippers,
Potent claws sheathed in padding paws
ready to flash
As dark rimmed eyes speak a warning.
Sleek plush coat silver touched.
Dark tail arcs gracefully
around your warm body
Head cushioned on outstretched leg.
Your tall feathered ears
Alert even in sleep
Gentle wise face, fine white whiskers
sharp black nose, smooth pink tongue
And white tipped chin.
Your purr ripples music
as I stroke your knitted forehead
Cautious little cat
Sleep on in your unknown, mysterious dreams.