Jeannie E. Roberts has authored four poetry collections and one children’s book. Her most recent collection is The Wingspan of Things, a poetry chapbook (Dancing Girl Press, 2017). She is also the author of Romp and Ceremony, a full-length poetry collection (Finishing Line Press, 2017), Beyond Bulrush, a full-length poetry collection (Lit Fest Press, 2015), and Nature of it All, a poetry chapbook (Finishing Line Press, 2013).

Black-Capped Chickadee

When you hit the living room window, I was stunned.
I thought you would be too. Bounce back, bounce back,
I pleaded. As I stroked your tiny chest, your warmth

penetrated my hands. Knowing you were gone, but still
praying you’d awaken, I began to cry. On that October
day, between the circle of pines, near the inuksuk,

I placed your body inside a plant. Stones marked your
presence here, honored your feathered being, your black-
capped beauty. Did you find a mate? Build a nest?

Were you able to fly the expanse of a summer breeze?
And how many chick-a-dee-dee-dee’s were called
before that idyllic reflection took your life?

We’re not so different, you and I. Bounce back, bounce
back, I tell myself. For a time, I do . . . until I fall once
again for that illusory view, that idyllic reflection―
false hopes, bad moves.

[image: black-capped chickadee | Gerald Hiam]