[This is my poem for Moss Piglet, due this Wednesday— Theme: Moby Dick]

"He is, without doubt, the largest inhabitant of the globe; the most formidable of all whales to encounter; the most majestic in aspect…” – Herman Melville

White Whale Speaks

Ishmael, be aware, you are a guest in my house.

My domain spans the two-thirds of the earth that is water.

Some say I am God, mysterious,

majestic, formidable,

uncatchable.

I am the largest inhabitant of the globe.

Yet, I breathe air like you do.

We both love the sea.

Like you, I have a voice, language, and a heart.

Even if I look imposing, I seek to do no harm.

Why your vendetta? Has fate pushed you

to conquer and destroy me?

Why don’t you go after that skiff over there,

the one with the Old Man

fighting a Marlin that is longer than his boat!

Help him battle those sharks

that attack, gnaw, and consume his catch.

Go! Thrash and harpoon over there.

The Old Man’s hands are raw

and bloody, heaving on that line.

For two nights and two days

he worked that fish

and finally —

lashed it to his boat.

He is exhausted. Spent. Drained.

He could use a crew like yours –

give him the muscle of your obsession.

For heaven’s sake,

help the Old Man

and just leave me alone.