Chenonetta Dreams

The goose beside the dam is dead,
she’s huddled in the mud a clump
of white amidst the weeds asleep.

It must have been a natural end –
no predators have rearranged her
peaceful pose from where I stand.

I saw her only now and then, would
rate each visiting a rare and special
thing; I thought she’d flown away.

She raised a brood of ducklings on
the dam this year – the parents
sailed her wake always at ease.

They’ve gone, I don’t know where;
but she will sleep assured in peace with
Chenonetta dreams for memories.
© 28 January 2009, I. D. Carswell

Australian Wood Duck - Chenonetta jubata