During the class. the following poem was submitted for review in week 3 and revised for the manuscript.

The Bear I Live With

Fergus is a polar bear.

In Ohio’s cold, he ignores me and won’t come near,

But, when it is hot, he acts like he is dying here.

His fur is soft and straight, looking so debonair.

The coloring is white with some brown and gray hair.

He’s primal yet majestic to get victims in his snare.

Fergus is a grizzly bear.

On his hindlegs, he towers into the air.

His sharp teeth, he is willing to bare

At guests when they don’t stay clear.

Not to pet him is a warning I always share

But reaching for him they inevitably dare.

Fergus is a teddy bear.

While I work, he kisses me as I sit in my chair.

He wants petted as I write my poems for Sinclair.

From his oversized bed, he likes to stare

And pout as I wonder what clothes to wear.

“I promise I’ll be home soon,” I must declare.

Fergus is a dog that presents like a bear,

But, unlike my guests, of him, I do not fear.

He more often shows how much he cares

As his inherited job is to be alert and aware.

His ancestors’ mood he came by fair and square.

So, I forgive the temperament for which he is heir.