The Swallows

The Capistrano swallow returns home,

folds frozen wings and sings his song of spring,

beholds November’s softly falling leaves,

sings louder for he faithfully believes

his mate will hear his song and return home.

She’ll sing to him of all her joys of spring.

Offspring will hatch and fledge and her sweet spring

will quench his endless thirst until she leaves.

Then he’ll spend summer freezing in his home

for he believes that she brings home the spring.