My Totem

A lone vulture
describes a gyre
above my deck.
Vultures are
quite ugly,
close up,
but majestic
as they soar.
This creature
keeps a
tight pattern
not so far
above me.
I drink whiskey,
smoke cigarettes
and observe.
Vultures can
scent carrion
at a vast distance.
Is he inhaling
my mortality?
The wisdom
of wild things,
not to be
disdained.
  - mce