King Of The Jungle Poem by bassey etuk

I give shelter to all, but none shelters me.
I have seen rain, sun and wind.
But still I stand and stand I will for generations.
Age makes me stronger…stronger than the chainsaws that nibble at my legs
My roots are the source of strength to the weary.
My trunk a merchant's desire
My branches, a mansion to the homeless
Strangers come from far and near for me
Like a virgin, I am exploited, hunted for my beauty, purity and prowess
Every bit of me is worth more the farther I go.
I grace the halls and bedrooms of the rich in far, far away lands.
But I stand as the king of the jungle,
Always strong and strong I stand for generations to come, an Iroko!
(Bassey Etuk. Ohio.6/2014)