The New Circle
A Sonnet
© 2025 by Walter Reimer

The dusky Prince, old Satan, hath lately decreed
That a new circle of Hell should perforce be built;
The sinners to go there are of a particular breed,
For heinous animal cruelty is their infamous guilt.
The pleasures of Heaven are to these denied;
Transformed to sleek-furred dog or fluffy cat
Or some handsome horse, one fit to ride;
And other pets beside, from raccoon to rat.
While their pets cross the Rainbow Bridge
Healed entirely of all wounds inflicted,
These villains, ears tormented by the midge
Spend eternity of their own deeds afflicted.
Amid the anguished yowls and yips
Fiends doth ply their stinging whips.