A pachyderm, as its name would imply,
Is quite encompassed by a rugged hide.
Alas, that epithet must needs belie
The tenderness the creature keeps inside.

Enormity and strength too often tempt
Some smaller, weaker entity to force
Them into yoke, their seizure will exempt
The captor from all pity and remorse.

And even those who freely range are caught
In land disputes and shrinking territory,
Or for their ivory callously shot
By those for whom blood money is the quarry.

Until peace gives them refuge overdue
I’m glad they find kind treatment at the zoo.