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Among the Trees Again

Chapter 45: WHEREFORE WINGS?
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About This Book

A sequence of short lyrical poems evokes rural and coastal scenes and the passage of seasons through attentive images of trees, birds, rivers, gardens, and moonlit hours. Each poem pairs precise natural description with a reflective mood, moving from springtime awakenings and playful vignettes to quieter autumnal and wintry meditations. Recurring motifs include longing for intimate contact with green growth, the music of bird-song and water, and gentle sentiments about memory, friendship, and sympathy. The pieces favor delicate imagery and musical diction, alternating lively observation with contemplative reverie.

WHEREFORE WINGS?

Heigho, sparrow! Reckless of the rain;
When chill the cheerless wind grows,
Chirping might and main!
Is it naught, then, when the rose
Blows again?
Beating, sleeting on your draggled coat!
Surely, ’tis enough to drown
Any happy note
Nestling in that downy brown
Little throat.
Ah me, sparrow! Had I but your power,
Think you in the freezing sleet
I would waste an hour?
—I’d sing my sweetest to a sweet
Orange flower!