Take Notice

a poem by Jan Oskar Hansen

I’m the owl in the garden’s tree
hooting and watching you sleep

I’m the seagull that shrieks when
you walk along the beach.

I’m the mangy dog that gives you
fleas when patting my head.

I’m the sharp-eyed buzzard that waits
for you to get lost in the desert.

I’m the slithering snake in the grass
waiting to poison you with my charm

I’m the sewer rat that scuttles across
The yard and makes you shiver.

I’m the draught that closes doors,
rattles and makes you scared.

So girl if you know what’s best for you
pay me some attention now.