Savage

by Melissa Giordano

My cat moves with dissolute finesse

Louche and savage

With subtle muscles and bones

That are locked into a furtive anatomy.

The hunter’s prowl of my goddess

Is driven by far-flung instincts

Steeped in the histories and dynasties

That swim behind her kohl lined eyes.

I am blessed by her silence

Her soft, artful presence

The subtle imprint of affection

And quiet, gentle acceptance.

When she lies near me

I can hear her purrs

Fluttering inside her ribcage

Like the birds she dreams of catching;

Each one whole and protesting

Her wild and savage sport.