Fantastic Meats

“What mythical beast would you most like to eat?”
That’s a question I posted one day.
It struck me at once that I hardly could think
Of a creature of legend that way.

The problem up front is that more than a handful
Can talk and show humanlike smarts.
They tend to be those, like the mermaid, who also
Look human in numerous parts.

Another big factor to rule out a lot
Of the options is apex predation.
Such beasts are a challenge to hunt and unlikely
To taste good enough for temptation.

And finally, some of these beasts are so huge
That their carcass could feed a whole army.
Unless you know hundreds of like-minded people,
To kill one for food would be barmy.

I looked through a list and decided the sea goat
Of Jewish and Greek lore was best,
Provided it wasn’t a version of Pan,
Whom I probably couldn’t digest.