MAGPIE

Magpie magpie on the branch,
I can hear your singing
Those with ears to hear might
not distinguish from your winging.

Magpie on the branch I hear
your call is through the air.
Your calling that; it mimics chat.
Suffuses everywhere.

Magpie on the branch
I don't think you can on the page.
Your call is strange though within range.
We've given it by Cage.

Magpie on the branch I hear
something that you have said.
I do not think it could be ink,
or something that I've read.

Magpie on the branch you said
a word I didn't know.
I hear it twice; it might suffice.
I can give it a go.

But I don't know your language, bird,
can't even speak my own.
Will I offend if I don't bend
my voice within your tone?

**

Magpie magpie on the branch
What is it that you know?
I heard it twice; it could suffice.
I'd hate to say it so -

- so that you hear, or to your ear,
something that I don't mean.
Our time as friend comes to an end.
At my nonsense you scream.