Leopard Watch

I saw the leopard watch his world, No second's thought for me... Yet angrily his hot tail swirled, Tensed up, quite anxiously... He must have sensed he was observed, But I was hidden well And though the leopard looked unnerved, I smiled he couldn't tell... I made no sound, no sound at all, In fact, I didn't move... When you're afraid, you're on the ball, With nothing more to prove... So there he was and there I was, So near and yet so far... The minutes went so fast because To me, he was a star! Distinguished markings, senses taut, Mouth open, teeth on show... Determined something would be caught Before the sun must go... Then suddenly he saw me here! He chased me off his turf! Good God, I've never known such fear! Must dash! I've seen enough! (August 2011/The poem is based on the magnificent painting by Stephen Gayford called 'Leopard Watch'.)