This predilection
to malediction
diseases, such as these, if it pleases:
mad cow
hog cough
chickensick
bold wives tales
in old folks’ tomes
three, the number
of your destiny.
wishes, fishes,
cowboy creamer
spoons and dishes.
the prophecy
naught but a fallacy
whispered in the wings
over moonshine
and dandelion wine
in our cups
under the table.
the forest council
all but forgotten
spun from straw
the golden fleece
fooled, pulled
the wool over our eyes
thrown
to the wolves in sheep’s clothing