Caged

It’s pleasant enough 

wandering these pathways

flanked by the tall rectangular cages, 

each protected by a steel door

with a security code.

Even pleasanter later, 

when the cages become 

walled enclosures of decorative brick, 

surrounding green spaces.

Intricate metal gates protect them

with a security code.

Occasionally a creature may emerge,

sometimes with barred teeth

and raised claws.

But mostly looking sad 

and out of condition.

Lost inside themselves.

Poor things.

Lost souls

searching.

Mostly though, I encounter them outside.

Moving purposefully to a destination,

not free to take random pathways, like me.

Or desperately heading back to their cages,

hoping there is no diversion 

which may leave them lost.

Leave them to encounter the

terror of the unforeseen

circumstances 

that might arise

from freedom.

Freedom 

to be lost.

Poor things.

Lost souls

in or out 

of their

zoo.

http://www.highpoint.edu/library/files/2016/06/2016-Apogee-Spring.pdf