Dying Race

Slipping down the passage of time

I spied an ancient porcupine

He said his spines had grown too old

And soft to use as swords so bold                   

His wrinkled brow, his strange long tail   (I know he aint got one!)

Were only vestiges of what they were

His pride and joy, his well formed toes

Were all that's left he said, who knows

What will become of me in time

When I have left this era, mine

And wandered out among the stars

To make strange puzzles next to Mars

Oh there, you see, just to the right

Is porcupine constellation bright

He fought so boldly with all his might

And now is famous in his plight

Oh porcupine, oh porcupine

Why did they have to go

The world is such a chaste old place

Without the likes of you, you know

Come back and change the wings of chance

And do again your magic dance

Your swords across your back and thighs

We'll drink to you, for you were wise