The Veiled Serpent

• Yuri Han, Grade 5, North Rocks Public School -
• Poetry
• 2022

Excellence Award in the 'Summertime Fun ONLINE' competition

Silver, unflawed perfection of the oiled, smooth diamond sharp scales,
A masked patchwork of umber, fire-gold shimmering down the deceiver,
Drilling holes from the cold, piercing onyx-black embedded in swollen sockets,
Obelisk sharp fangs - jagged like clasps of priceless jewellery - polished, neat,
Forked tongue - reflecting radiance from sunlight, slipping from the widened mouth,
Coils upon coils of flaming ribbon - rich in vivid colours,
Lithe body studded on primrose vegetation - gliding in swift serenity,
Arching neck - a flash of topaz, slanted eyes twitching, sensing movement,
Veiled face, imaginary lips curling in delight,
Cold laughter rises in storms as the head moves - striking,
And lifting slowly, keeping a tenacious grip on the victim,
And all is still once more.