Masters of the Wind

They stand in regimented
order, lined up on the seawall,
all facing into the wind. 
A slight turn of a body 
catches a squall and sends
an errant gull off balance
forcing it to take flight.
Overhead, some hover,
others bank and sheer off
into the distance,
coming back to hang
in the air before
descending to the ground.


Seagulls are masters
of the wind, feathers tuned
to ride each gust and gently 
float the chaos that boils
beneath their wings.
The air is home to them.
Then suddenly, such mastery
collapses into to a ball 
of feathered fury, all grace gone,
fighting over the remains
of a big mac flung out
of a car window,
but leaving the pickle.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2023

Poem

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Kitchin Avatar
June 9, 2023 at 3:58 AM
Paul, a wonderfully penned poem, love the seagull imagery, they are my favorite part of going to the beach. They get a bad rap but are incredibly beautiful and smart birds. A fave for me.
Willason Avatar
June 9, 2023 at 4:29 AM
Very much appreciate yr comments Tania. Watching gulls on a windy day is one of the joys of being on the coast...indeed they are amazing creatures....
Lawless Avatar
June 8, 2023 at 2:06 PM
I've seen them snatch the burger right from people's hands......nicely done
Willason Avatar
June 9, 2023 at 4:18 AM
Thankyou John for yr comments...seems gulls have similar manners all over the world...
M  Avatar
June 8, 2023 at 5:22 AM
Haha love this Paul great humour….leaving the pickle! Made me smile!! Debx
Willason Avatar
June 9, 2023 at 4:12 AM
Thanks Deb....pleased that the poem got a smile. Paul
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