Young Pretenders

(found in an old notebook of mine, swans are very territorial in the mating season)

As swirling veils of winter mists

are softly kissed by half-baked sun,

a lovestruck swan in courting mood

checks out his rivals one by one.

Into his path newcomers stray,

too close by far throughout the morn,

hostile aggression he displays,

demeanour set, full feathered white

sharp focused, ready neck set low,

at speed he glides prepared to fight.

All young pretenders freeze in fear,

a battleship approaches there,

no hesitation on their part

as threats abound, their actions smart.

They don't perchance a second glance,

fast turn direction, sail away.

Reviews

[Davidgeo]

That's some well worded flow this morning. It was interesting to imagine this playing out with swans, and then people. You could see this in an amusing and charming way or a more, aggressive, natural animalistic way. It works both ways but, I prefer the charming take.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you David. What I saw was pure aggression in nature. However human nature often mirrors what happens in the natural environment. If you could see this in the context of people as well, that's two for the price of one :) Many thanks.

Chris

[Kathy Van Kurin]

''Young Pretenders'
Christine Anne Shaw,
To consider the Swan which is lovely, graceful and pure white as a a wild bird of aggression and instinct is fascinating. For they are not a creature domesticated hybridized by man such as pet dogs. Even in old classical paintings they are seen as food for humans having been hunted. I saw a swan recently pulling seaweed up from the bottom of a shallow bay area. It was so enjoyable to watch.
Cool write!
Kathy

[Chris Shaw]

Dear Kathy, when you see swans so majestic and graceful, it is difficult to comprehend their aggression, but it is clearly evident. Recently a dog strayed too close to a swan's nest near the river close to home. The Swan killed it. I thank you kindly for taking the time to review this poem. All good wishes.

Chris

[Kathy Van Kurin]

Christine
Yes, I see your point. My goodness what a stark difference between how they are viewed and the whole of their wild character. Thanks for your great response. I had not heard this type of thing before.
Kathy

[Chris Shaw]

Yes Kathy, they can be very aggressive, particularly if they feel their mate or cygnets are being threatened. They have been known to break limbs with the power of their flapping wings. I keep well back and admire them from a distance :)

[Laura Kate]

I really enjoyed this Chris. The topic was so interesting - not something you come across often. I think its very clever how you embody the character of the swan and give them so much personality in such natural flow. I love the rhythm to this. Best, Laura.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Laura Kate. Certainly the behaviour of swans can be interesting if you look at them long enough. Your review is thoughtful and very welcome. All good wishes.

Chris

[NATO KRYVAVRY]

The imagery is beautiful.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you so much for your review. Your visit appreciated.

Chris

[Anne’sRants]

I had a swan pond near my old house - one of my favourite haunts. This took me right back there watching them fight over the bread crumbs i brought them
Nice write christine

[Chris Shaw]

Many thanks for your visit. Pleased you called on my page. Pleased I took you on a nostalgia trip.read moreMany thanks for your visit. Pleased you called on my page. Pleased I took you on a nostalgia trip.

Chris

[Julie McCarthy (juliesp..]

Awesome love the rhyming beautiful thanks 🙏

[Chris Shaw]

Many thanks for your review Julie. Much appreciated.

Chris

[Fairytale]

Wow, amazing. As a beginner, as can be seen, by my poem Revenge, i must say this 10 levels above my work. Hopefully, my skill will grow to this level someday, and maybe more. I don't wish to bother you, but when you have free time could you review my poem ?

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Fairytale I appreciate your visit and thoughts.

Chris

[kentuck14]

Nice work Chris! very evocative.
T

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you so much for your visit Tom. Most appreciated.

Chris

[Ver]

I enjoyed this poem for it's visuals and I learned something new about swans!

[Chris Shaw]

Pleased you enjoyed the read Ver and I thank you for your visit.

Chris

[R.E. Ray]

Nature is beautiful and dangerous, and worthy of respect in both regards. Well said, Chris.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you so much for your visit. Good to see you back on the board.

Chris