A Lone Warrior

In the steaming foliage
Of the jungle,
Emerges a lurking shadow.

It stalks ravenously;
Appearing innocent,
Yet its aggression can be perilous;
Feared by the impotent.

Striped transversely
With black stripes
And a reddish tan coat,
It shields no fear.

With its intimidating roar
And razor sharp talons,
It inoculates a sense of veneration.

It haunts the jungle without a sound.
It possesses an undying vigour.
With its piercing eyes –
A vertical luminescent band.

Powerful and solitary,
It remains unrivalled.
Feared by man,
Yet man is its only enemy.

Copyright © 1987 by Jim Ing