Whose branch this is I think you know.
By how my ( question-marks as ) claws inscritch the bark.
How my worry-work along this bough
runs back and forth ( and copper-keen ) and evermore;
I got mocked and nicked No-Fly Bird
not for nothing.
Not for nothing have I picked this oak.
Though not thicktrunk-ancient as some angel-oak,
it’s sure the highest of our high so suits my lack.
—Charred wings won’t lift; I’ve got no glide
nor span to speak of. Ain’t this my beat : my usual limb.
Ain’t this pecking ( carking ) pulse
my far and wide.