The Original Wild Child
by Michael Doyle

Over pizza. we swung from vine to vine
These laughing daughters making the time
To watch a remake of Tarzan this Saturday night
Each smile a moonbeam of their father's delight

We talk as we watch Africa's original feral child
And the youngest reminds me from memories she's filed
That Tarzan was once a nickname of mine I wore well
Or at least the tale told in her favored details

We compare notes of what the director got right
Wondering if Burroughs would take it as slight
How the director took so much liberty with the story
And decide in the end that changes are part of the glory

I tell her the importance of not having fear
That there is nothing that should take away our cheer
Especially when it comes to acts of creativity
That the expression of ourselves should be done bravely

On occasion, it's fine to be contemptuous of society
Especially of those who live in drama and lack dignity
There is a time and place for thoughtful contemplation
But to never waste her time in needless argumentation

Persons can circle reasoning until it feels endless
The best that course will get you is to become friendless
It's better to leave that sort of thing well behind
Because no matter how right, it won't bring peace of mind

She reminds me of tales she's heard and holds with regard
How all of society's lions fiercely require careful guard
A smiles tells her it's not always best to be that feral child
And the rules of civilization are more complicated than the wild

(c) January 20, 2024   Michael Doyle
All Rights Reserved