Young Pretenders

(found in an old notebook of mine, swans are very territorial in the mating season)

As swirling veils of winter mists

are softly kissed by half-baked sun,

a lovestruck swan in courting mood

checks out his rivals one by one.

Into his path newcomers stray,

too close by far throughout the morn,

hostile aggression he displays,

demeanour set, full feathered white

sharp focused, ready neck set low,

at speed he glides prepared to fight.

All young pretenders freeze in fear,

a battleship approaches there,

no hesitation on their part

as threats abound, their actions smart.

They don't perchance a second glance,

fast turn direction, sail away.

Reviews

[Davidgeo]

That's some well worded flow this morning. It was interesting to imagine this playing out with swans, and then people. You could see this in an amusing and charming way or a more, aggressive, natural animalistic way. It works both ways but, I prefer the charming take.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you David. What I saw was pure aggression in nature. However human nature often mirrors what happens in the natural environment. If you could see this in the context of people as well, that's two for the price of one :) Many thanks.

Chris

[emmajoy]

Your writing never fails. Such a beautiful yet utterly accurate and finely put piece of writing, Chris. Swans look so pure and elegant - until their emotions, whichever how, shift them into action. Their calm movements betray hidden aggression: can break a human leg by flapping and flaring their magnificent wings when, only minutes before had moved across water as if at one with it. Those nearby know better than to nonchalantly glide when trouble nears, and how! Perhaps tis a lesson humans could learn: move on, mind your own business unless, togetherness be essential?!

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Em for your visit and your ever thoughtful reviews. I certainly think we can learn from the natural environment and the animal kingdom. Yes we do need to know when to leave things be and move on. A lesson our politicians should heed for sure.

Chris

[emmajoy]

Don't get me started on politicians!! Silently nodding, sitting on fingers.. and thoughts. Your post had and has my mind going in different directions to be honest. Hope sunshine is warming your toes!

[Chris Shaw]

I like very much that a poem send the reader on varied paths of travel. Have a good day Em.

[David Klay]

You truly are an artist with your words. Your poetry is both intellectual and captivating. Nicely done, Chris. :)

[Chris Shaw]

Pleased you like this one David. Thanks for your visit.

Chris

[Kay Salisu Titilola]

Full of intellectual thought.
I'm actually just short of words,
These are words with perfect combination,
The truth is unveiled by you, Chris.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Kay for your visit and your generous review. Much appreciated.

Chris

[Kay Salisu Titilola]

My pleasure...

[Eilis]

Ah, if only we reacted such when provoked. Knowing when to walk away is an important part of survival sometimes.

I’ll extend you a similar compliment to the one you offered me this morning, Chris. Your words do display a keen and watchful eye. Always absorbing your views of the world.

But beyond that, you translate the views into portraits that everyone can share in. Not always the tranquil, mind, but always insightful. Demonstrating an understanding of nature.

Nature is not always easy to define. Great work on this one.

[Chris Shaw]

Dear Eilis, your thoughts are greatly appreciated as is your more than generous review. Thank you for taking the time. All good wishes.

Chris

[Dave]

Curious how closely human behaviors mimic those of animals. I have had the opportunity to watch a pair of swans really go at it. It was awesome and brutal to see. I think you captured the essence of it in your write.
Take care - Dave

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Dave. Swans in full fight can be terrifying, in full flight can be awesome. Thank you so much for your visit. Much appreciated.

Chris

[Patricia Wedel]

Yes, Christine... we all have a day that is our Swan Song...
a swan will overtake the pretenders in a courtship that
melts our heart and soul as we both glide together forever
and a day. truly, Pat

[Chris Shaw]

Dear Pat you just reminded me of the last image my dear childhood friend posted on her Facebook account three days before she died. It was of a pair of magnificent swans gliding into an autumn sunset. She had joined her beloved husband in the autumn of her years. Thank you for your beautiful response.

Chris

[Robert Trakofler]

well I'm a silver back now no sailing left in these feathers:) not many to stupid to cross beaks with me these days:) great scene on display here Rhyme Queen got no swans round here but geese galore

[Chris Shaw]

How interesting Bunny where you took my words. Swans are incredibly beautiful, so it is a shame you don't have them. There is beauty in geese as well, but not the majestic grace. But male swans in the mating season are highly protective of their mate and don't want any young pretenders on the scene. That reminds me of human behaviour. Bunny may not sail but I bet he still hops, skips and jumps:) Thank you so much.

Chris

[Ted Kniffen]

I think the only bird that may not be frightening is the hummingbird...unless of course if he's off-key.
We do have swans...but the Canada Goose is far more populous and they can break a leg with a wing...also territorial. Still, it's cute to see the goslings being herded by two imperious looking parents.
They'll stop traffic with no problem.

Good one, Chris.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Ted. Yes Swan parents are very protective of their cygnets and in the mating season the male swan is very aggressive towards other younger male swans if they sail into his territory.I very much appreciate your visit and thoughts.

Chris

[Dave Brown]

certainly something here about the pecking order
I don't blame those young birds, neither would I wish to suffer from goose (er swan) abuse

[Chris Shaw]

Male dominance at play here. The older alpha male. They scarpered before the going got tough. Have a lovely day Dave. Blustery here to say the least. Washing's having a fine blow.

Chris

[Dave Brown]

.......and U2.......

[Chris]

Our minds see US as we were... til we LEARN inside how we are. And some never learn - THAT is the child within looking out.

[Chris Shaw]

My inner child is well and truly present. Thanks Chris for your visit. Most appreciated.
read moreMy inner child is well and truly present. Thanks Chris for your visit. Most appreciated.

Chris