Screech!

A night camping in the deep thicket if east Texas.

Screeches cracked the embered coals of night
Sparks flurried consumed by the hungry dark

Chills course through my once lethargic body
Triggering a back flip into the safety of my tent

Trembling in the uncertain cloister
I yank my bed roll to my chin still fully clothed

Ears wide open, I await the attack
Uncertain silence simmers the thicket

Suddenly great flapping wings
signaled the lifting of some giant preditor

Swifting away over the pine tops
It screeches to some distant prowling perch

positioning itself over
another unsuspecting prey.

Author's Note

A Screech Owl is a small bird with curdlling voice.

Reviews

[LazerRays]

Being out in the woods is amazing, getting lose in nature and losing all sight or evidence that humans ever existed. At some point, one begins to question their own existence. That opens the gate to a deeper understanding of the world. Great visual of camping here

[AllenS]

We loved the thicket of east Texas, my brother and I, 100,000+ acres of piney woods, lakes, streams, grided forest service roads, and ample opportunity to lose oneself for a weekend, a month or more. From the lighted corona of the campfire one could watch multiple sets of inquiring eyes shining in the surrounding pitch darkness enlivening the imagination and reminding one that aloneness was a relative term. This one is dedicated to me brother David with whom I explored the tantillizing surrounds of Huntsville, our boyhood home.

[Tony]

Reminding us there's always a predator out there looking for prey.

[AllenS]

And that our immagiation at times preys on our well being. Thanks Tony gor reading and sharing.

[Abhishek Izy]

This is again a great piece of imagery and tinge of adventure mixed in. I admire the writes which reflects Nature or its components. This one does it for me

[AllenS]

Nature was a side kick always ready to enliven my boyhood. This has continued to submit itself for reversion as the years go by. It has been a fun retreat inviting me to return.

[Coyote Poetry]

Had the feel of a chilling place. The forest and the unknown. I felt the thoughts and the waiting for the mystery attacker. Thank you Allen for sharing the amazing poetry.
Coyote

[AllenS]

Thanks, John for sharing your experience reading. Helpful insight.

[Coyote Poetry]

You are welcome Allen.