Peewit Poem by John T Shillito

Swooping, soaring, diving, in scintillating, whirling mirth
Bright, colourless jesters, mocking gravity of mind and earth
A twist, a turn and now, Black Baron plummets from on high
Challenges all to battle, claims dominance of this spring sky
Screaming his two-tone defiance of daring, nimble foes
Dauntless, steadfast, defending, the precious stony patch he chose
Forsaking sleep, scorning fatigue, raging storm, and food
Preserving this barren plot, perfect home for incipient brood

Hiatus. She comes! Serene, indifferent, Queen of all desires

A pause, then tumbling, whirling clouds of suitors paint the skies
Monochrome kaleidascopic whirl, the Baron is through, and past
Trails the scarlet banner of his dominance, unchallenged at last
Triumphant, he scatters all, then, gentle, diffident, changing pace
Tempting, luring, pleading, extolling virtues of this barren place
He leads, the first tentative steps, enticing her to join the dance
She feigns indifference, glides over his palace, deigns to glance
He leads her to his fortress, proud of each stick and stubborn stone
Bows, scrapes, pleading for her to consent, to make this her home
Encouragement! or not? He circles closer, radiates magnificence
She decides, consents, submits. Tempo rises, faster, intense
They flaunt their acrobatic amour, an ariel duet, rising ever higher
Each now claims the other, in a ballet of passion and desire

Now content, she takes her throne, as he patrols, guards her well
Beneath her, their sparks of immortality, safe in armoured shell