Wednesday, May 24, 2006

An Audubon Poem



J.J. Audubon Observes a Different Kind of Bird

This interesting species
is really a beautiful creature
I have met in spring
when travelling.

She swims repose,
gradually rounding
and descending,
flying the water-courses
in placid passage
to alight on the dear spot
of pleasant labour.

I have adopted
the singular regularity
of listening and echoing
her smallest appetite –
a strong shiver,
a wing swiftness,
the active transit
of a dusky voyage.

– Found poem created from words and phrases
from John James Audubon, Birds of America, 1840

2 comments:

Arlene said...

lovely nature poem, sharon -- sounds like an interesting read, too! love audubon's art.

and WOW, what an achievement for your husband! the accompanying drawings are simply delightful.

arlene

Sharon Hurlbut said...

Thanks Arlene! The first drawing was taped to our car window the day of the ride, so everyone would know we were cheering him on. He's keeping them (of course)!