The Tiger’s Eyes

He came growling into the night

of my still and steady mind,

looked straight into my eyes,

and just stood.

The bright yellow never wavered,

holding my gaze,

as though they are set in a stone.

Cold beads of sweat

broke out on my forehead,

but I still held the gaze.

My throat was parched

and my soul was tethering.

I knew then, that if I looked away,

all shall be lost.

I needed to trap him inside me

for some time longer, at all cost.

He stood his ground

and I refused to give in.

Suddenly, from afar,

someone started playing the lute

and alas, the trance was broken.

He slowly walked back and all went mute.