The Lion Tamer
Around the rails, the circus crowd sits pale
to watch the beasts perform the tricks they loathe -
They hope that I, their tamer, may just fail.
But with my whip I will control them both.
I have outfaced the adulating crowd
and I have learned to ride the lions' rage --
My early quest for freedom had its shroud
in fame found here within the circus cage.
For freedom, I pursued the painted lights
(while others dreamed of flight in tame unrest)
in tearful longing past a thousand sights --
Within my trade, today I am the best
and watch the crowd behind its fearful mask
and watch the painted lights that will seduce --
The lions' foolish master, thus I ask
if there's still time to put my life to use.
