the snake

the snake
in your shed coiled
pink
and brown
on the shelf that you
thought was
rope
did not like being
touched
or poked.
but what did you know.
why would you
possibly think
that a snake would
slither
up the wood
and find a damp
dark
corner with which
to call home.
how it rose and hissed,
ready to strike,
you falling back
and out. letting out a yell.
the neighbor
on the other side of
the fence,
peering over, then
coming into your yard
with a sharp hoe
and rake
to take care of business.
she was without
mercy.
taking of the head,
then flinging it's
lifeless body into the woods.