A Broken Neck

(for misunderstandings everywhere)

Sometimes there’s nothing to do

without risking others’ feelings.

That sad currawong with his unblinking yellow eye.

You put on your welding glove

and we nestled him in the cat carrier.

His sharp beak was helpless after-all.

Pity like a soft rainfall overhung me

but he will never understand that.

We are still his murderers – with the vet’s needle, gently.

nb: Pied Currawongs are a large black & white bird common in my area.  They have strong, pointed beaks and very yellow eyes.  But their call is gentle and they are surprisingly shy.