Red Squirrel


When you see
a squirrel fall 
into a shallow well

and bob bob along 
swimming as he struggles
going round and round

rescue him,
and expect a soggy stare.

If you find him later,
floating four feet to the sun

you'll know he didn't 
lose his balance 
or think "I'll learn to swim" 

he grew tired of all the battles 
and the hairy beast dove in.

Copyright © 2003 Bren Gentry