for birds in a time of plague

how can i write about the plague
when syrup-seeking silver-eyes
flit for aphids, rich
in honey-dew

should i mention the sickness
that diffuses in the fresh
autumn air, in the quiet
streak-free skies
now, once more
the dominion of birds

shall i belly-ache on about
my strictured life
or shall i just be joyful,
for the Kotuku
that alights on
my chimney


© 2020 Maggie Z. Brown