TO A WILD GOOSE OVER DECOYS
O lonely trumpeter, coasting down the sky,Like a winter leaf blown from the bur-oak treeBy whipping winds, and flapping silverlyAgainst the sun,—I know your lonely cry.
I know the worn wild heart that bends your flightAnd circles you above this beckoning lake,Eager of neck, to find the honking drakeWho speaks of reedy refuge for the night.
I know the sudden rapture that you flingIn answer to our friendly gander's call—Halloo! Beware decoys!—or you will fallWith a silver bullet whistling in your wing!
Beat on your weary flight across the blue!Beware, O traveller, of our gabbling geese!Beware this weedy counterfeit of peace!—Oh, I was once a passing bird like you.
3
