Hunting Butterflies

By TropicalSnowstorm


Tonight I will go down into the pit of my stomach
to hunt butterflies with a shotgun and machete,
destroying them mercilessly so their lifeless eyes
will no longer mock me with the prospects of failure.

I refuse to ponder odd lessons thoughtlessly
put forth that are not in our best interest,
like scenes straight out of hell’s nursery rhymes
designed to scare us into keeping on our yokes.

Pour me into crystal glasses and serve me
along with a good, sensible cheese
so I can leave a taste on your tongue,
‘fruity, with bright tannins and nuances of nuts’.

Later, we can both nod soberly as hollow advice
is allowed to float harmlessly away on the wind,
with only a red handprint left on my cheek in
evidence of the mock anger that I made you laugh.

-- by Steve McKennon, 2/2/07

Unauthorized Copying Is Prohibited. Ask the author first.
© 2007 TropicalSnowstorm
Published on Friday, February 2, 2007.     Filed under: "Philosophical" and "Poetry"
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Comments on "Hunting Butterflies"

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  • A former member wrote: Loved the imagery of this. If only I could all seek those butterflies with a scattergun on my back, I'm convinced it would make the world of difference. Much love ~Rich

  • Lynaes On Saturday, February 3, 2007, Lynaes (859)By person wrote:

    Wow, the first stanza utterly gripped me. "to hunt butterflies with a shotgun and machete". I agree with the capt. You do have a wonderfully original way of wording and displaying your wit. I love this.

  • capt_funguy On Saturday, February 3, 2007, capt_funguy (778)By person wrote:

    there's always such a classy kind of " rascal - ish " cool to your works. like they have so much world , and wit behind them . not spelled out , but laced in all through ... always a pleasure to read ... thankyou sir.... funguy

  • NikesRain On Friday, February 2, 2007, NikesRain (1298)By person wrote:

    there is always this rogue like feel to your work, a poignant devil may care charm and honesty that makes it impossible to pass up... as always a joy to read you

  • A former member wrote: Wow, all i can say is amazing!

  • Mylissa On Friday, February 2, 2007, Mylissa (845)By person wrote:

    "Pour me into crystal glasses and serve me along with good, sensible cheese." perfect.

  • Army Barbie On Friday, February 2, 2007, Army Barbie (324)By person wrote:

    Man, that made me laugh for some reason. The frist two lines and I knew I'd love it. And I did. Kick ass

  • Bella Butchery On Friday, February 2, 2007, Bella Butchery (724)By person wrote:

    "nod soberly as hollow advice is allowed to float harmlessly away on the wind" whoaw brother, this was absolutly powerfull, applauds

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