To Conquer a Cat

To answer a cat’s sphinx riddle,
first look into her eyes. Amber-spirited,
temple of soul, they’ll tell you
the fate of your hand approaching
for a pat. Judge her temper now by the speed
of her tail. Come from the side, stealthy
as a rodent humbling itself to be eaten.
Your fate rests with how sneaky
your own paw can be, extended
like a fireman’s ladder to save her
from loneliness. As you advance, watch
the glowing coals of her eyes: slitted
request for contact, for fellowship. The catch
is to calm her ego with the palm of your
soul. Tame the runaway spirit. Bring the god
of trust back into the shrine of her eyes.
Let her reward your coming by the sacrilege
of her furry head rubbing against the pillars
of your thighs.