Dead Dog Chant

Don't die today, dog.
Wait till your family's here.
All around the world to see you.
Survive until next year.

Your tail quivers into dust
on the doorstep where you lie.
Your slimy tongue hangs further out.
And all you can do is die.

I've stared so long at you, wall,
I see I'm wearing you down.
Greenish wavy furrows flake,
the imprint of my frown.

Today I glanced off chips of paint.
Tomorrow, bricks will drop.
And when at last the old dog dies
my view will never stop.

Dennis List