No, not the kind that slither across the road Until they get squashed by a fast-moving car. I’ve seen a few of them on my morning walks. Poor creatures: don’t snakes have ears? No, these snakes are an invasive plant, Burgeoning out everywhere. But, like the vipers that don’t exist on this island, These snakes have fangs. Oh, don’t fall into a blackberry patch! I think I’d rather drink poison and die a slow death Than impale my whole body on those thorns. I’d pass out from the pain, I’m sure. They’re vicious and relentless, the way They rise up over existing bushes Like snakes ready to strike. But I’m at the ready with my clippers. Cutting them back as soon as I see them. Some are just skinny babies. Others half an inch thick. But my clippers win today. Tomorrow, more snakes will rise up out of the woods And try to take over my landscaped grounds. I won’t spray, though. My deer family live here.
