In a world that spins wildly around us, the poem serves as a haunting echo of desperate lives lived on the fringes. Here, we find a vivid portrayal of those who tread the unforgiving streets—referred to, perhaps cruelly, as “puppet mongrels.” This imagery provokes a thought: Are we merely spectators, like casual passersby in a bustling marketplace, or do we hold the power to make a difference? As we delve into the lines that explore the stark reality of existence through the eyes of these wandering souls, there’s a poignant questioning of loyalty, survival, and the search for a guiding hand. Each stanza poses a challenge—will we engage with their plight or dismiss it? The narrative captures a raw yearning that resonates deeply, inviting us to ponder our own responses to kindness and fear. So, as you read, reflect on what truly unites us all in this sprawling urban tapestry—could it be the need for connection, the dream of safety, or perhaps just the simple act of sharing a moment of understanding? Embrace the journey through these verses, and who knows? You might just discover an unexpected parallel to your own life… LEARN MORE
We beg on the street.
We roam the roads as puppet mongrels on a string.
We are roughened up. We are weak as can be.
We put you at risk and we are ready to risk anything.
There’s a longing in every astronaut-dog’s face.
A survival lottery in every litter’s birth.
As whistles go whistling off to space
bones come hurtling back down to Earth.
Would we run after them and bring them back?
Might we pick at the leftovers with the pack?
Would we wag our tail at any kind of kindness
or bark ’n’ snap out of fear of being defenceless?
We follow our noses.
We track down what we’re after.
We stray. We sleep.
We dream of having a master.
