Phantom!

The wolf surveyed looks quite sublime, As first impressions go, When he's relaxed and takes his time, Reflecting every glow... The unaware can smile and stare, As if there's nothing wrong, But he's a wolf, so have a care, Outsiders don't belong... Admittedly the wolf looks kind, Content when he's alone, As if there's nothing on his mind, Despite his heart of stone... Still with a youthful sense of fun, But let each man take heed, That phantom's proved a wily one, With cunning to succeed... His ghostly silhouette once seen Conveys a sense of awe, But get too close and he turns mean, Don't try to shake his paw... Untamed throughout the centuries, Some wolves remain the same, The fact that they don't aim to please Has proved their claim to fame... Denis Martindale, copyright, January 2015. The poem is based on the magnificent wildlife painting by Stephen Gayford nb Google-search gayfordgallery and 'Stephen Gayford poetry'.