creole lion

above the clouds the moon is in new phase
in the far distance slowly turns the tide
we let the moment pass in summer pride
from distant africa we count the days
to this green shore and the same lunar rays
illuminate the things that you would hide
the world's no different on this hotter side
but we take stranger forms under your gaze
you did not think to bring us into shape
only to have us be your speaking tools
at best the calm attendants at your feast
and yet out of the blend of love and rape
taught at both harshest and most gentle schools
you find you have released the tawny beast