"Tanager" by East Kingston, New Hampshire poet ~ Bob Moore

 Tanager

You come to settle but your stay
lasts no more than the time it takes
to wait. Your act begins each day
with fluttering wings. You trust it makes
a strong impression on your mate,

and hope her glances haven’t found

another black-winged bird to date.

You perch a height above the ground

and, with your scarlet breast in view,
invite her to reciprocate.

Last year yours was her favorite hue.
This year it seems as if she's late
to look your way, and if it's true—
that someone else has caught her eye,
I guess there's nothing left to do 

but lift your unfurled wings and fly.  

by Bob Moore