Proteus Poem by robert dickerson

If you meet Proteus asleep in your path
Amidst stinking sea calves
Proteus, who alters form at will
I will tell you what to do
But I'm only telling you once
So listen well.

Your chance is come at last!
Never skulk away
On or off the beaten path
Seize him like the day and hang on fast
Ask him what you want to know
Though he twist this way or that-a-way.

Though he turn to torrents in your palms
Rising on either hand like a sea parting
Threatening to drown you
In his waves and leave you soggy where he found you
To the jellyfish at last
Hang on fast.

Though he turn to fire
Flame amazement in your face
Leaping higher, higher
Promising to burn you to a serious degree
This, too, shall pass
Or shall, if you but hang on fast.