Hawkbells By James Baker Hall
hawks valued more
for their hunting
than their flight
are called birds
of the fist they
work from trees
and fence posts
in swift dashes
and twists often
close to the ground
falcons valued more
for their flight
are called birds
of the lure they
work in open fields
from a high pitch
above the quarry
diving and swooping
when you tame a bird
of prey for sport you
are said to man it
from hawk houses
and mews you work
with gloves tethers
hoods and bribes
a bird of prey
on the wrist is
a watch her
talons time
she examines you
as closely as you
her with this difference
you belled her wanting
flight always to return
to you you turned
yourself into a what
would you call it
to hood a bird
on the wrist
you must pull
the knot tight
with your teeth
a smile maybe or
threat even a kiss
whatever the promise
the bird says bird
From “The Mother on the Other Side of the World” by James Baker Hall (Sarabande Books: 70 pp., $12.95 paper)
