Sumatran Tiger

Sumatran Tiger! Look at you! So many frowns you've got! As if you don't know what to do, So you don't do a lot! I see you resting all alone, Pretending that you're fine, But you don't like it on your own, You need a Valentine... I know you're proud, stiff-upperlipped, But that's bravado, friend! It's outward show, emotions gripped! You'll soon go round the bend! There's some cute tigress all depressed With frowns as long as yours! Go get her, tiger! Do your best! Caress her with those paws! You're made of flesh and blood! Yes, you! You lucky so-and-so! It's time to change your point of view... It's time for you to go! Sumatran Tiger! On the shelf, With dark frowns on your brow... Get up! It's time to move yourself! Your courting days start now! (May 2011/The poem is based on the magnificent sketch by Stephen Gayford called 'Sumatran Tiger'.)