Remain cautious, ever watchful,
even as the vibrations of heavy
footsteps trudging down a nearby
wooded path fade; still the echo
of angry mutterings reverberate,
lamenting another
Saturday’s loss.

Beautiful Buck, you’ve won the day.
Breathe easy now, as he drives away.
Gather your family close, as you
once again allow sweet serenity
to settle upon your forest home.

Far away, a camouflaged fool,
cursing his wretched luck,
returns home empty-handed;
no bragging rights tonight,
no bloody carcass to haul away,
no trophy to triumphantly
hang upon his wall.