“Storge” | Ariana Nguyen | Poetry

Storge

Ariana Nguyen

In Colosseums, Uncle Sam said “fight” So, you and them (two ugly mutts) prepared. He gave your wounded jaw a bone to bite— Poor mutt—did you forget he put you there? So kind, Sam cut their claws then said you won Paraded you in front of other hounds So well-behaved—he used you like a pawn Dumb mutt—did you indeed believe those sounds? A muzzled dog may learn how to convert But snouts at dinner tables are a lie. You think you’re smart—not rolling in the dirt Yet you can’t see we’re all mutts in Sam’s eyes Cruel man (two legs), I loved you (still I do) But who has taught me love if it’s not you?