The Swan
This was inspired by watching a swan take off and land on the River Dee, in Chester.
She glidesWhite majesty along the waterShe owns this space Then to leave for the airWings outstretchedNeck thrust forwardHer wingtips beat the riverParallel trail of ripplesFeet that paddle hardThen run on the surfaceForce the river to give her upPowerful slow beatsShe rises above the waterNow ruler of the air And the return homeWhite glide in beautyWings giving hint to movementsCompensation for wind and updrafts Almost on the water she leans backNeck back she beats against her progressFeet skim the surfaceShe settlesWings fold immaculatelyShe slides from air to waterAs her breast meets the riverHead held high and haughty She glidesWhite majesty along the water