First Deer Poem by Larry Schreckengost

Looking down an iron sight
At the deer, I intend to smite
The bullet travels at blistering speed
A generous distance to discharge its deed

The sound barrier crack
The meat report thwack
Will I ever get my hearing back
With an eager stride
Filled with pride
I hasten for my prize
Not prepared to witness her demise

In blood-drenched snow
Lays a dying Doe
Her question why
I hear her cry
It was clear this deer felt fear

With my knife
I took her life
Her eyes cast dwindling light
Abolishing all fright

To this day I think of deer as prey
Still, on some cold snow-covered days
I've allowed a few to walk away
Because both deer and hunter have a price to pay