I throw a cursory glance

From my open window

And a magpie strides across the lawn

Poking about in the grass for grubs,

A big, proud, beautiful bird.

In the spring sunlight

Long, strong tail feathers

Lift and hold as it bends its head

And prods the dirt for food.

Its black plumage is a brilliance

Of bright blue and green and purple.

I watch as it swaggers about

In complete control of the world.

Human invention, however fine,

Can only copy such magnificence.