The Piano Behind the French Doors

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Years ago, in Okie-ville,

I bought an abandoned farm.

The barren land and seasonal creek

Had to me, a special charm.

 

I started to remodel the house, 

I created a large koi pond.

I installed a Japanese bridge,

And planted Weeping Willows beyond.

 

I purchased a grand piano,

 Installed it by custom French Doors.

I’d play music well into the night,

Cows gathered in groups of fours.

 

One night I spied a bent over bird,

On a branch in the willow tree

There is a no greater threat to a Koi Pond

Than an Egret lurking or flying free.

 

Night after night he returned for the show,

He seemed to bob his head to the beat,

He showed an unusual respect for me,

And not one fish did he ever eat. .

 

Ten years later, before moving,

Before the piano was packed in the van…

I noticed the night heron was back,

To hear one last concert again.

 

I admit my piano playing was good…

The Egret was a discretionary bird.

Still now forty years later, his visits,

The best music my heart ever heard.

 

I felt an obligation

To play my nightly tune,

As if he was lord and master…

The bird who hangs the moon.