The quivering legs
Thin ebony hairs pulsing with fear—
Or was it apprehension?
Could it sense my desire, my disgust,
My repugnance?

Tender fibers enveloping
Member of order Araneae
Ancient creature,
Beloved deity,
Helpless arachnid

Its plethora of black beads
Reflecting the dim flickering fluorescence
Focused at an apex
Upon my judgment

Fist clenched
I clasp the ashen, chalked folds
And release the feral
Through the gateway between
Tame and unconquered
Through the doorway
To the wild