This is based on a true story from the 80's which hit the news. I was 15 when I wrote it. Jambo became famous Aug 31,1986 when 5 yr old Levan Merrit fell into Jambos base and became unconcious. Jambo stood guard protectively over the boy until he was rescued. The media dispelled the myth of Jambo as fearsome, like King Kong. Jambo was found dead on Sept 16 1992, my daughters 1st birthday. He now has a biography and is known as the gentle giant. (See wikipedia)
Heres my poem.
I sat in my compound sad and depressed
so lonely and tired
day after day just the normal routine
sitting around waiting for them
whoever they are
often when I look around I hear a cry from above
those animals must be scared of me but why? I do no harm
Then it all happened this object fell
I thought it would never land
It let out a shriek as it fell to the ground
and the cry still echoed around me
I guarded him with gentle care
They treat me like King Kong
They thought I was going to hurt this boy
They really were so wrong
So whats the use in trying Jambo
No-one appreciates anything
Lisa Cresswell Wilkinson
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/jambo-the-gorilla-true-story/
