Silent Symphony

The ceaseless waters carve below

an angry river, slicing time -

as otters play upon its banks

and gibbons swing from vine to vine.

The eagles swoop from high above

and dip below the canopy

as tiny, feathered chirping doves

rest huddled in their nesting trees.

Gorillas squat in muddy soil

and strip away at bamboo trees.

The hippos make the water boil,

while tigers stalk their prey unseen.

Yet with man’s blade, the trees are cut -

and hunting lions cease to roam;

transported in an iron cage,

by iron trucks to iron homes.

Now chatter fades to stillest night -

a whimper where she used to roar.

Her symphony of life retreats,

until, one day, she sings no more.