Public-domain source text

Alligator Rider

by James McIntyre

From Standard Ebooks · standardebooks/james-mcintyre_poetry

I was born in State of Florida, On the banks of a mighty river, Where each big alligator’s jaw Makes the northern folks to shiver.
I truly was possessed with vim, And some droll antics I would play, While in the river I did swim, And rode alligators in the bay.
It oft times amused spectators Who came down south to gain their health, To see me ride those alligators; My sports to hotel brought great wealth.
In hotel were many waiters To tend the guests, enjoyed my rides; They loved to see the alligators When with my spurs I pierced their hides.
My bridle great did them surprise, I put no bit into their mouth, But put my fingers in their eyes, And thus amused the folks down south.
’Tis strange I still am a survivor, Living ’mong earth’s sons and daughters, For I was a wondrous diver, And could boldly swim the waters.
Swifter far than any skaters Do o’er north frozen waters glide, I could stride my alligators, And o’er the waters proudly ride.

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This is a source transcription from Standard Ebooks, published in Past Poetry’s public-domain archive without line-by-line editorial notes. Public-domain source edition. Availability can vary by territory.

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