Belch

Breathless, in a net, we captured you-
Ring around the yew tree
Threw you bright-eyed in a gilded cage
And watched to see what would happen next: Surprise!
You thrived and seemed happy enough.

At night you fluffed your feathers
And made yourself egg-big
For insulation-it was a nice trick:
Warmth to your remotest toes.

The kitchen light suddenly turned on,
Late, you'd be found head wedged
Under your wing, asleep for a sec,
Till you awoke, vigilant as ever.

Singing was not your forte. All day
Instead, you belted out your one sole note.
We'd hoped for better, but this was the
Way you registered your will in the world.

That human...

poem by Morgan Michaels
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!