These Are My JOTtings, Part #2

Expressive Eyes

Upon the snow the shepherd stands,
head tilted, as if to say,
"This domain is surely mine.
Please, tell me of your plans.
You'll find me kind, if you obey,
and fierce, if you don't fine."

The German Shepherd's eyes are steel.
He sizes ev'ry flinch.
The snow highlights his ev'ry move.
His eyes are deepest weel.
Slow moves are noble. 'Tis a cinch,
lest sentry dog reprove.

"I see you, Human. Get that straight.
You see me, too. I know.
Impressive features by me honed.
In friendship, they'll be great!
If careless, you the fool do sow,
swift judgment will be groaned."

Look on that face. See grace most rare.
The kindness hides behind
the eyes with no emotions seen,
until in safety he sees care
to melt in arms, his home to find,
new "parents" lie between.

line count: 24
poetry form: iambic sestets of 3 iambic tetrameter & iambic trimeter couplets
prompt number: 2 (February 2nd, 2026)

by Jay O’Toole
on February 21st, 2026