Fragile wing spred ravaged on the thorns
of blossomed branches promised once
now torn.

Ragged wing she flutters
spent to no avail
longing for cocoon she shed
an empty shell.

Shell shed too soon, she wonders,
"Is this Hell?"

Keeper of the Aviary, you know I was meant to fly, Keeper of the Aviary do you see me plastered to the toxic blossom, paralyzed?  Wings spread wide against the predator who hides  just beyond range of sight.  Come quickly for my strength is small.  I won't be here at dawn.  Just pieces of me scattered 'round the aviary-- I'll  wait a while -- and then I'll go on -- somewhere-- somehow-- Come keeper come! Unthorne me now and take me with you when you go.

©  linda settles