Go Grow

Once, I caught an eel as it fed
On smaller creatures rising up from silty, brown-grey mud
Its sharp, spasmodic movements had caught my eye
I watched it as it twisted in my bare, young hand
I considered whether it belonged in water or on land
I returned it to the river; it swam away

But you know what it looks like
You know what it smells like
You know what it feels like
Go grow

My cups of plenty always were abrim
With gifts that I would never give to her or to him
I was always ready to resent or to retire
Now medicated gum clots the streets
And disregarded fun sticks to the soles of my feet
And some of the buildings around me are on fire

But you know what it looks like
You know what it smells like
You know what it feels like
Go grow