The institutions of society
seldom look at a particular-
Degas's snubnosed dancer swings on high,
legging the toplights never leaving stage,
enchanting lovers of art, discerning none.
Law fit for all fits no one like a glove. .
Mermaid, why are you another species?
"Because, you, I, everyone is unique."
Does anyone ever make you do anything?
"Do this, do that, do nothing; you're not chained.
I am a woman or I am a dolphin,
the only animal man really loves,
I spout the smarting waters of joy in your face-
Rough-weather fish, who cuts your nets and chains."