Dogs

I can hear the barking of dogs surrounding their bed
I hear the release and then silence
And then I pretend to sleep
I'd rather on the ground than in your bed
I'll sleep on the ground or stay up instead

There's a deep well that seems mostly empty
I stand at its edge and stare down helplessly

Then I pretend to be alone
I'd rather on the ground than in your bed
I'll sleep on the lawn or stay up instead
Stink and sweat and moan and dream of new air

Wander out with my swollen feet
To whatever pond I can leave peacefully