An Ode to Richard Parker

A king of the jungle raised in captivity Pi’s simple log could not contain your activity A heart hungry for freedom and boundless territory Man’s simple watercraft is the backdrop for your story: Panthera tigris, with a mane so fine Adorned with orange, white and black lines Life as a cub was spent in the zoo With hyenas, zebras, and orangutans too. Then the Patels decided to move Taking their family and livelihood too A freak storm came, destroying the ship Leading to an unorthodox companionship. Upon this lifeboat were a motley crew: A youth, zebra, hyena, orangutan and you Slowly the band dwindled, one by one With yourself and young Pi, there was much to overcome. Survival was mandatory; death not an option Finding food was concern number one Like manna from heaven, the locker was a blessin’ The lifeboat was divided with a room for you to rest in. Pi was creative, insightful and bright Finding ways for you two to live to see nigh Carnivorous plants and piercing rains were no big deal When heat and dehydration blurred what was fake and real. Alas, salvation came after some seven months at sea When you found land you finally were free Pi went one way, and you the other But after those 200 days, you’re always his brother.