swamp night

quicksand encrusted red canvas shoes
new moon hidden beneath the moss
bullfrog throwing back tequila shooters
mermaid tattoo on his back leg
an old 45 skips rope in the corner
where several rattlers shed their skin
slim whitman's old bandana
covers the log where the termites dance
several well worn firestones
serve as nurserys for the mosquito young
entertained by an old black bear
whispering stories that frighten the young
about a blonde haired monster
with large white teeth
who he swears he once saw
broke the furniture, ate the food
and slept in his childhood bed
of course no one belives him
he has a scar on his head
where a hunter once took a shot at him
and they know he is a little soft
the larvae settle in for the night
to the sound of a cricket song
interspersed with a gentle roar
from the giant on the ground.......