THE AMERICAN GOLDFINCH

 

THE AMERICAN GOLDFINCH

            --for D. P. at 17

is the songbird you fill the feeder

full of thistles for, Dee. This morning

you’re 17, and finches sing

Tsii, tsi, tsi, tsit, for you. Maybe

you’re making pizzas today,

working your shift at Mod Pizza,--

maybe right now, you’re getting ready

for work, maybe checking messages

on your phone from friends singing

for you. When they call, sing back.

Tell them you like thistles, dandelions,

small twigs. Tell them you like flowers,

lots of flowers, purple ones.

Purple ones with yellow centers.

You’re 17. Give this day to yourself.

Hey, this day to find out again, what it’s like!

Love you. Gpa

27 December 2024