I
we inhabit the shade-cast spaces
where wan post-rain sun fails to grasp
& hold the tarmac or concrete foot
-paths where we still from our walking
to look into the light.
II
this morning crow left a black feather
fluttering in his wake & it falls before us
in a gentle stilling of movement that holds
us for a moment in the confusion between
earth & sky.
III
together we twine – crow, you & I
to feel the moment through talon-ed feet
the drift of tail, bite of beak & ruffle
of air where arms have scorned
skin for feathers.
IV
on time-laden wings we loop & meet the sky
where sky meets earth to plunge between
known & unknown our feathers shabby
& dust-filled our eyes beady bird-eyes sharp
in their forgetfulness.