For Frankie - The Australian National Library Mudlark Poem by Keith Shorrocks Johnson

So well renowned among the janitors
A small pert bobbing mudlark presence
Struts and pecks - a library scavenger
Reviewing books and reading's sustenance.

No sounds from her of hymns at heaven's gate -
Just solemn quiet investigation
Of Australia's literary state
In Frankie's foyer interrogation.

Dainty in her bobbing quest for crumbs
She trips so lightly through commemoration
Ignoring pride to which mere man succumbs
Oblivious to admiration -

And in this vast cathedral of learning
Is she picking up the book-worm's turning?