Fox Encounter

The fox sprang down from the hill to my right

barked at my intrusion and bounded

onward downhill, leaping over the ground

gracefully, its magnificent tail

flagging disdain,

towards the suburban citadel.

I laughed and yelled oh yes surprised and jolted

from reverie, as the fox had been jolted

momentarily from flash descent

and sharp intent

the distinct scent of purpose

perhaps of prey

or mischief,

focussed from brain to snout

snout to tail

and as I descended I heard a clamour

behind the fences

as dogs aroused from sunny slumber

had sniffed the scent of intent

the full brush of wildness from

the bush beyond

as the fox just stood there proud

and taunting

and they sensed it in themselves

and we envied the fox,

and howled.