The Elephant In Our Street

An elephant arrived today and wandered down our street.
He had a kindly little eye, and massive, wrinkled feet.
He knocked a hydrant over, and a water jet flew high.
He snatched some gum leaves from a tree that slowly passed him by.

He stopped beside a power pole to scratch some itchy skin.
I heard a splinter and a crack, and then a mighty din.
Sparks were flying everywhere. The house lights all went out.
People ran 'round angrily. I heard them scream and shout.

The elephant was frightened, too. Against dad's car he leant.
The tyres burst. The windows broke. The roof and doors were bent.
He trumpeted most terribly. He had nowhere to run.
I ran outside to meet him, and I offered him a bun.

He took it as I stroked his trunk. His fear grew less and less.
I heard him groan with pleasure beneath my soft caress.
In time he ambled slowly off, no panicked twists or turns.
He seemed so sweet and gentle. I hope he soon returns!

© Stephen Whiteside 02.02.07