The Tailorbird, also known as the Songbird, is a majestic passerine bird and a delight for photographers, especially during the breeding season from June to August in India. I took these pictures at Seawoods Creek in Navi Mumbai. One particular bird caught my attention with its repeated slow and rapid calls, giving me ample opportunity to capture it in various moments. This poem is the result of my one-hour encounter with this beautiful species.
Sorrow of the Songbird
From June to August
We enjoyed the refuge behind vegetation
But look now, I’m all alone
Broken and bashed
The passerine is dry
But not drier than my pale lifeless face
The deep cup we built together and called Nest
Is devoid of your loving grace
You made for me a soft bed of lint
That constantly feeds your hint
I was shy, shy in your love
I miss the finest nectar
And the pride of being its benefactor
It is September
I’m all alone
You left me with three little hatchlings
Wondered, what should I name them.
Until a flower told me
June, July & August.
Poetry & Images Copyright – Sameer S Nilatkar
