He bent his long,and ultra sleek neck
and gently took, from lakeside edge,
my offering of food, then swan and I
began to try to contact, eye to eye.
Silent dialogue started, a moment
alone absorbed us both and glowing
with watertight calm, his aim only
seemed then the same as my own.
To exchange this strange dueting song
we had to accede a right from wrong
in behaviour, ‘though wild he desisted
from hissing out a normal resistance.
As perfection in white feathered coat,
knowing his worth yet never remotely
disturbing me he swam nearer, forlorn
sound began then, a clapping of horny
beak which repeated staccato as he fed.
Pristine wings unfurled and proud head
raised to full regal height, he began filling
the scene, displaying strength, statue still
the swan, reflecting watery light, again
looked into my soul, now bold I strained
to touch this handsome wild untameable
bird then as I precariously leaned to stroke
discreetly an open beak, his neck unfolded
allowing me full reach, just momentarily.
He then sailed on and he preened as he went.
