Money (279) Devices

Contoski uses personification to show the power and influence of money. The only time the word money is mentioned is in the title. Since the first stanza, Contoski references money as "it." The money takes on the role of a wild animal, that an owner believes can be controlled, but with time, its real and dangerous nature will shine through, "At first it will seem tame/ willing to be domesticated" (1-2) that it is willing to change for a short period of time but it will resort to its instinctive ways.
In addition to the personification, the diction is provoking because these are not words normally associated with money; "nest in your pocket" opposed to folded in your wallet, nested is similar to having a home, having deeper connection with the owner of the money. "Like a dog and lick/ the legs of women" (10-11) shows the idea of seduction, how sex and money tend to go hand in hand. It is not written in a vulgar manner, but it seems as though that is the hidden meaning behind the line; that different kinds of women become attracted to the presence of money and certain men become more attractive to those types of women. "Water it every three days" (18) taking on the role of being attended and cared for, that without nurturing it will not grow and prosper. Watering it will make it multiply and bring more happiness to the proprietor of the money. "Bite" (25) displays the negative and ill-temperateness of money, that no matter how tried they try, it will always have the upper hand.