Chased by Dogs

(Verse 1) Back in first grade, my dad took me to play, To a moldy-smelling playground where we'd spend the day. The stale air around us, wood chips under feet, Sneakers squeaking on the slides, the sun's warm heat. (Pre-Chorus) Dad and I, we played, laughing side by side, Till two blurry shadows came, nowhere to hide. One chased me fast, my tiny legs ran quick, All the way to the swingset, heart racing thick. (Chorus) Inches away, the dog was on my tail, I pushed the baby swing, and watched it wail. It flew through the air, whimpered in retreat, Ran back to the woods, a narrow defeat. (Verse 2) Dad called out, "Get high, don't stay on the ground," I ran to the slide, jumped up with a bound. The second dog missed me, barking loud and clear, Dad came running, belt swinging, showing no fear. (Pre-Chorus) He stood by my side, yelled at the beast, The dog ran away, our fright had ceased. We waited a moment, stepped off the set, Dad picked me up, and we left with no regret. (Chorus) Inches away, the dog was on my tail, I pushed the baby swing, and watched it wail. It flew through the air, whimpered in retreat, Ran back to the woods, a narrow defeat. (Bridge) Met the owners, teens without a clue, Dad’s words were sharp, cutting right through. A mix of comfort and fear in his tone, I learned that day how to hold my own. (Verse 3) Got in the car, drove home, he called the cops, Every retelling of this story, never stops. From essays to tales, I sharpened my pen, Turned terror into lessons, again and again. (Chorus) Inches away, the dog was on my tail, I pushed the baby swing, and watched it wail. It flew through the air, whimpered in retreat, Ran back to the woods, a narrow defeat. (Outro) Cats rule, dogs drool, it’s my lasting creed, That day at the playground, a story indeed. Bonded with my dad, over bravery and wit, A memory of strength, I’ll never forget.