A CAGE WENT IN SEARCH OF A BIRD

Kafka

 

What use is a cage

that's become afraid

 

of its own trappings -

its mirror, its bell its swing?

 

What use is an opening 

that doesn't stay open?

 

What use is a perch

that doesn't stay still?

 

No use thinking things

will change

 

should a bird fly in

and make itself at home.

 

What use is a companion

if your fear's so loud

 

you cannot hear

their song?

 

Maggie Sawkins (from 'Zones of Avoidance' Cinnamon Press 2015)