Minnesota State Fair 2006

Minnesota State Fair Poem: Jack and Arthur

Jack and Arthur

by Leslie Ball

Jack and Arthur are twin lambs born just minutes ago.

Arthur looks exhausted

Eyes still cloudy with the womb he left behind

As if he hasn't completely arrived

As if he hovers between two worlds.

I want to cradle him gently,

Let him float in dreams mystery

Until he's ready to step into today.

By nature knows better.

Sheep give birth standing.

As gravity pulls the infant toward earth

A short drop breaks the umbilical cord.

A few inches still dangle from the newborns' bellies

Right now, mom is rapidly licking

Steadily cleaning her new wards,

Somewhere between tender massage and tough love.

Past generations who saw this believed that the animal actually

Brought their offspring to life by sculpting them with their tongues

Giving birth to the phrase "lick into shape."

This mother's tongue is rigorous, vigorous

Efficient and purposeful.

Already, Jack stands on wobbly legs

Poking his nose against mom's belly

In search of her udder.

When he finally locates his target and begins nursing,

A cheer erupts from the onlookers.

Now mom turns her attention to young Arthur

But the slightest nuzzle sends him toppling.

Once again, I want to scoop him up

But she knows what he truly needs.

She continues to push and prod him

Back onto his feet where she keep cleaning him,

Keep pushing, prodding,

Keep licking him into shape