pale orange patch
startled to glimpse a pale orange patch
i looked up from my computer
through the venetian blinds
at the distinctive hind quarters
of an elk not twenty feet away
in my back yard
such a thick, muscular body on
dainty hooves and spindle legs
massive, long head and heavy spread
of antlers—and not alone
just then aware of the busyness
around him, i leaned to look
around the porch posts and to
the other window
six huge, powerful, wild creatures
grazing within feet of me
keeps me properly humble
