The Bonfire

On a ranch called Blacktail
Tween the elk and the beaver and the quail
The group from San Diego did gather.

The flames leapt so high
I got smoke in my eye
We all knew what was the matter.

We've seen deer and pronghorn and sheep
We've counted fly-overs in our sleep
But we can't catch a damned eagle.

The bonfire must cure this
It won't be fair unless
We all get to cuddle the bird so regal.

So we call on the owl
Pray to shorebird and fowl
Bring us the eagle migration.

On a ranch called Blacktail
Tween the elk and the beaver and the quail
Let us trap eagles on our vacation.

                        Doug Schanzenbach