A poem for National Poetry Day. A day to celebrate poetry in all forms.

On National Poetry Day, I would like to share my latest poem with you, entitled “Fleeting Chance.” This is a poem about a real life encounter I had with a magnificent Kingfisher whilst walking along a canal towpath on a rainy day.

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.

Focussed 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 focussed, 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

I enjoy writing poetry which reaches all people, including those who don’t usually read poetry. Typically most of my writing is inspired by “feel good” experiences, born out of life’s normal routine things which we can all too often just take for granted. I do hope you enjoy this poem. For more examples of my work, please feel free to browse my bookshop at  www.writtenwithamile.com

Fleeting Chance: A poem for National Poetry Day