I heard some peculiar sounds outside near my balcony yesterday and went to investigate. It was a family of ravens on the neighbouring balcony. Mom and Dad were out with their teenagers — and the young ones, especially one of them was really unsure of him/herself. It was wobbling back and forth on the banister and making the most worried sounds. I stood and watched them for awhile. The young one would sidle up to one of its parents and seem to demand something from them — most likely food, but I thought it was maybe seeking reassurance. Mom and Dad stuck close, but ignored all the whining. Eventually, they coaxed their baby into flying off, but not before there was a lot more complaining and nuzzling and attention seeking.
Ravens, I think they’re fascinating creatures.
I wrote the following poem earlier this year and submitted it to a local magazine. It wasn’t selected for publication, and I’ve tweeked it a bit, but seeing that family yesterday prompted me to share it.
I hope you like it.
Kathy Larson ©2018
Raven Speak
Clork? Clork?
They chitter and chatter
Amongst themselves,
Quorkel. Quorkel.
At times,
Voices
Soft and gentle.
Quirrel? Quirrel?
Where were you?
Let me see.
Are you all right?
Grak! Grak!
Leave me alone!
Stay away!
I hate you!
Crah! Crah! Crah!
Death-black wings unfold.
Beaks like scythes slash.
Don’t come back!
So ungrateful!
Kraw! Kraw!
Oh, who cares?
I was going anyway.
There are better places
Than this.
Than here.
Chirrip. Chirrip.
Please, oh, please.
I’m sorry.
I want to stay.
Please? May I?
Gleergle? Gleergle?
We love you.
We’re sorry.
Come.
Sit.
Feel the sun?
Warm on your back?
Chrrgle. Chrrgle.
There now.
We’re okay.
All That Matters 