The Hawk Ascendant

By John I. Blair

Starting from a spot above
The sun-baked surface
Of the asphalt parking lot,
The red-shouldered hawk
Rises fast on the hot air,
Takes measure of the building’s side,
Then teeters around the glassy walls,
Thrust up by deflected winds
Until it bursts past the building’s brow,
Free at last to soar into the open sky.

I, who must remain below,
Just gawk with pleasure
At this simple show
Of aerodynamics and pride.

©2002 John I. Blair