Jambo The Gorilla (True Story) Poem by Lisa Cresswell Wilkinson

Jambo The Gorilla (True Story)

Rating: 5.0


This is based on a true story from the 80's which hit the news. I was 15 when I wrote it. Jambo became famous Aug 31,1986 when 5 yr old Levan Merrit fell into Jambos base and became unconcious. Jambo stood guard protectively over the boy until he was rescued. The media dispelled the myth of Jambo as fearsome, like King Kong. Jambo was found dead on Sept 16 1992, my daughters 1st birthday. He now has a biography and is known as the gentle giant. (See wikipedia)
Heres my poem.

I sat in my compound sad and depressed
so lonely and tired
day after day just the normal routine
sitting around waiting for them
whoever they are
often when I look around I hear a cry from above
those animals must be scared of me but why? I do no harm
Then it all happened this object fell
I thought it would never land
It let out a shriek as it fell to the ground
and the cry still echoed around me

I guarded him with gentle care
They treat me like King Kong
They thought I was going to hurt this boy
They really were so wrong

So whats the use in trying Jambo
No-one appreciates anything

COMMENTS OF THE POEM
Francesca Johnson 18 September 2006

Another great write, Lisa, written when you were young! I like the subject.... Love, Fran xx

1 0 Reply
Duncan Wyllie 04 July 2006

So you were a caring person even at this tender age, I think that the feeling in this says even more than the words put to paper Well done, YOU'RE A STAR! ! ! Love duncan X

1 0 Reply

That's a heartfelt touchintg poem, it's so sad how people have this immage of King King being evil, him and Jambo were just missunderstood. Jambo wanted to care for the boy and King Kong was only scared and homesick. Never give up writing Lisa. Best wishes Marissa: -)

0 1 Reply
READ THIS POEM IN OTHER LANGUAGES
Lisa Cresswell Wilkinson

Lisa Cresswell Wilkinson

Northumberland, England
Close
Error Success