The Robin

Image by Unsplash

At this time of year, as well as gracing our gardens with his confiding presence and lyrical melody, the robin graces our homes on Christmas cards and decorations. This month I have a poetic offering for NatureNotes, in honour of the nation’s favourite bird.

The Musical Diplomat

The robin – perched in his customary spot –

Tips his hat at me

And pours into my thirsty ear

His fanfare of liquid silver –

Songfully staking his claim to this tree,

This patch of earth and all its bounty.

He and I together cock our heads

And listen for his rival’s reply

To erupt bugle-like from a nearby oak.

I smile.

May I – may we, robin-like, learn

To settle disputes with robust harmonious expression

And with our neighbour, take turns to sing and to listen

In respectful silence.

Only at the last pitch – if life

And limb face imminent jeopardy

Will the redbreast abandon his weapon of melody,

Resort to muscle, beak and claw

And fight – even to the death.

But today he fills the air with luminous song.

I tip my hat at him and walk on.