Villanelle "Wolftracks"

Let none cry wolf, who have not seen its fur
Up close, and shuddered at its powerful reek
The breath from out its teeth, upon the air.

We must not start, at tremble of a hair
Nor spread vile rumour when we try to speak
Let none cry wolf, who have not seen its fur.

We should take care, lest we have too much care
Turn everything to Watching, as we seek
The breath from out its teeth, upon the air.

Sometimes, the wolves will sleep within their lair
Life will be joyful, and none harm the weak
Let none cry wolf, who have not seen its fur

And yet, without a wolf, what spice is there?
What scent will thrill, tuned senses at their peak?
The breath from out its teeth, upon the air?

Wolfless, and loveless, under grey despair
We do not seek to die, or court the bleak.
Let none cry wolf, who have not seen its fur
The breath from out its teeth, upon the air.


Simon BJ