#5

Chick

Massage the breasts,

With olive oil, thyme, garlic.

Smoothly, rub the legs,

Around the legs, below the legs, between the legs.

A dab of oil on the wings.

Flip over,

Massage the bottom, the back.

Slip a finger inside,

Oil makes it easier.

Two fingers,

Salt and pepper.

Three fingers,

Crushed cloves of garlic.

Whole fist,

Stuff it.

Gently onto its bed of

Carrots, garlic, onions.

Set the oven at 365 degrees,

Make sure that the breasts

Are facing upward

As that allows it to cook thoroughly.

Thrust it into the oven.

After a hour and ten minutes,

You will want to pull it out

Before it dries out

And becomes tough.

Overflowing with anticipation

As you might be,

You must wait

And gaze upon the sweating

Legs, breasts, wings.

To allow it to settle down

And breathe.