MAGPIE CONVERSATION

by Jock Jacober

Out in the yard there is much discussion.

Several are conversing on a deep matter.

These are poets who assert their assumptions

In a manner ranging from squawks to chatter.

Grumbling, cackling, and hemming and hawing

Convinced by their understanding of life,

They recite lines holding forth with much cawing,

Dressed to the nines in black and white.

Magpies are confident in their own eloquence,

With long tails bobbing at each syllable,

They resolve the issues of consequence.

To these poets, death is reconcilable.

The magpie reserves one call for death.

Gathered in tiding they speak with one breath.