Elephants in chains
training for rides or photos
bullhooks prodding neck
Author Note: Elephants are sentient beings who live in families. Humans kill them for ivory and skin and feet to be made into tables. Humans steal their babies and chain them, alone, stretched out to break their spirit. They prod them with bullhooks or burn them, starve them to get them to follow orders. Some religions paint them and parade them for religious ceremonies. Humans want to make money from them through photo opportunities and rides. Sometimes, they prod a stick sideways into their sensitive trunk and give them a paintbrush to sell the painting (it is painful). No care is taken for their feet or hide or feelings. Don't help cruelty to continue to the gentle elephant. Mostly, it is Asian elephants, but African ones are also captured. We are slowly ending animal circuses.
Copyright © 12/13/2024 by Andrea O. Corwin
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About the Creator
Andrea Corwin
🐘Wildlife 🌳 Environment 🥋3rd° See nature through my eyes
Poetry, fiction, horror, life experiences, and author photos. Written without A.I. © Andrea O. Corwin
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Comments (15)
Great writing sbout a significant issue. Helps spread awareness that they are ourveqyals not subjects
Very sad. Thanks for speaking up, Andrea
I felt this one deeply. I once saw an elephant do a headstand at a circus. It was really sad. I was done with the circus after that. I support this message!
A heartbreaking truth. Thank you, Andrea.
Oh, my heart. 😪
Elephants are truly incredible!
Our persistent cruelty to animals does not speak well of humanity, and suggests that the word humane needs a different root since humans are anything but. Again, loved your Haiku, but distressed by the subject matter.
Wow, this poem really packs a punch! You’ve nailed the powerful message in such a raw way. It’s a solid reminder to be kind and stop the cruelty. Great job! 👏😊
This was powerful, its an issue we need to address. Thanks for writing about this, Andrea! 💓
Aww 🥺 nice haiku to bring awareness.
I hope all abuse against animals could be stopped 🥺🥺
Poaching is a persistent problem, indeed. And elephants are one of my faves. They're so smart! A lovely haiku.
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Your advocacy for the poor pachyderms is compelling!
I love elephant, I did not know that's how they are treated and trained