Rabbits' Feet & Snakes' Eyes

Roll the dice
     I let it ride on rented hopes
So I end up staring snake eyes
     once again, like every time--
Tried charming cobras;
          bit instead.

Rabbits, they can't run quick
     When their feet have been removed.
Can't buy much with lucky pennies
     when your hope stones sink the boat
          Kept on swimming.
          Started sinking.
          Bolting for that little hole.

But serpents' bodies, long and thin,
     having advantageous shape
     and possessed of curse-born quickness
Are not wont to go away...

Past all guards and wards they slither
So, shivering, watch them pass
Right past all your best defenses
Good luck charms gave in to chance.