My alligator teeth keys
Jingle metallically
And flip the lock mechanism
Of my well-oiled deadbolt
With a clankity-clink.
Controlling the entrance to my
Individual and private space,
The lock offers
Solid security
Against pesky prowlers and
Other unwanted visitors.
Left to lock
And right to open,
The powerful turn of the
Alligator teeth keys
Welcomes me home
To a personal place
Of kitty whiskers, pretty rocks,
And reading materials,
This is truly
My place in
This world.
The Alligator Teeth Keys – A Commentary
The source or idea for “The Alligator Teeth Keys” came from a request to write a poem about an object. I chose keys because they are an image or symbol of ownership and responsibility. In the case of the home, the key can control who enters your home. It can also be used for other things like the mailbox, the car, or any other locked object. My experience writing the poem is a need to express my individuality by having my life in my own control as is demonstrated by having my own keys. The techniques I used include the use of sound alliteration (example: “personal place”) and onomatopoeia (example: “clankity-clink” of the deadbolt). The tone of the speaker is to be relieved and to be able to relax and not worry about outside invasions. The structure or focus is on having the keys to a place that is safe and secure, while also being free to have independence in adulthood.
Karen Hein Poetry 