Evolution

The skid of her body
across the floor, like a bird
with flippered wings—

back arced how a penguin
sleds over Antarctic snow.
You don't grovel enough, Pet,

he says levelly.
Belly like a snake
or become extinct.

Her scales shed and grow
and she desperately navigates
his offered skin,

writhing her newly bifurcated tongue
for some small taste, some smell
or bite.

Survivor Poetry Contest
Poet's Choice (Free Verse)