A Cage went in search of a Bird
(Kafka)
What use is a cage
that’s become afraid
of its own trappings –
its mirror, its bell, its swing?
What use is an opening
that doesn’t stay open?
What use is a perch
that doesn’t stay still?
No use thinking things
will change
should a bird fly in
and make itself at home.
What use is a companion
if your fear’s so loud
you cannot hear
their song?
Maggie Sawkins is the winner of the Ted Hughes Award for New Work in Poetry
Visit: http://www.zonesofavoidance.wordpress.com
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