What an exceptional bird the Kingfisher is, with its aquamarine plumage and its lightening bolt precision.
Take a look at this wonderful photograph created by a very good friend and former colleague of mine, John Cobham
John has kindly allowed me to use this wonderful shot to illustrate my poem “Fleeting Chance” which describes an encounter I had myself with a Kingfisher whilst out walking along a canal towpath.
I hope you enjoy the poem which will feature in my next book.
Fleeting Chance
Towpath trudging; tired feet, determination looming
Precipitation’s bounce and flex, my aching limbs; chest booming.
I’ll not give in to darkened skies, this cloud mass overhead
With thoughtful gaze I stop awhile, receptive eyes instead.
Focused now, I pause and sit to soak up what’s around
Sunbursts create a tapestry and warm the sweated ground.
So still am I, in comfort here, nature’s bounty out to greet
My breath suddenly sharpened when a gift lands at my feet.
Creaking muscles as I freeze myself, disturbance kept at bay
A Kingfisher adjacent me, with eyes fixed on his prey.
His poise so skilled and focused, so gracious, I’m in awe
Resplendent stature in turquoise and green, a dart for his menu so raw.
Like a thunderbolt lashing the rippled canal, this fine specimen’s skill has me hooked
A glorious vision so true to his being, trailing aquamarine as I looked.
A moment in time, but so poignant, sets my mind onto plains higher still
I imagine a feather back moment, through his eyes before taking his kill.
Holding tight on this down built for capture, conjures dreams of a freedom so rare
Fleeting chance has provided this vision, as I revel in the moment I’m there.
Anita Williams