A powerful buffalo, the dominant creature of the plains, grazes peacefully until he spots a wolf, a known enemy. Unfazed by the wolf's presence, he remains confident in his strength. As more wolves appear, their numbers grow, yet the buffalo stands resolute, prepared to defend himself. Despite the pack's ferocity and their attempts to surround him, he remains defiant, ready to fight or die. The wolves, driven by hunger, close in, their growls and howls intensifying. The buffalo, fueled by rage and determination, retaliates with fierce strength, using his horns and hooves to fend off his attackers. He manages to inflict damage, taking down several wolves, but they persist in their assault. As the battle rages, the buffalo suffers injuries, blood flowing from his wounds. In a desperate act, he charges at the wolves, tossing them aside, but the relentless pack continues to overwhelm him. Ultimately, despite his bravery and might, the buffalo is brought down by the sheer number of wolves. The scene concludes with the wolves feasting on the fallen beast, a tragic end for a noble creature, far from his herd and loved ones, leaving only bones on the plain.
By James McIntyre · First published 1884 · Genre: Poetry, Nature Writing, Allegory