Death-trap by Tony Josolyne

Arts Richmond

Online - 18 November 2020

Death-trap

“There’s a dead bird, on our feeder,”
                    she cried.

The tree-shaped frame suspends
               its offerings,
     a choice of dietary needs:
     each branch rising steeply,
                 curving out
     towards the waiting treats.

Unmoving, the inverted pigeon hangs
  Suspended cruelly, by a single leg.

           A sudden movement:
                 only faint
                   but life!

        The gloved hand lifts,
         releases the captive:
      the escapee soars silently
                 from sight.

                              by Tony Josolyne