The Moose
Neil Harding McAlister
Artwork by Ilene Black
Wise woodsmen who wander the wilds way up north
Make friends with a gangly beast
Who sups in the swamps where the slime-weeds spring forth,
Knee-deep in his succulent feast.
With soulful, brown eyes and a big, bulbous nose
The Moose gives them nothing to dread.
They use him for hat racks and hanging up clothes,
His antlers obligingly spread.
They serve him sweet strawberry smoothies to sip,
And seat him upon a settee.
The Moose guards their garments, and garners a tip
From guests who depart after tea.
Go pester your parents to purchase a Moose --
The perfect new pet for your home!
And if they’re reluctant, accept no excuse:
It’s something each family should own!
©2006, NHMcA
Kirkland Lake, Ontario, Canada