The Pelican

[Stephen Whiteside]

The Pelican

(the beak and the belly)

I know what they say of the pelican.
Its beak holds more than its belly can.
I don't believe this is true.
Let me put this, then, to you.

What is the point of a beak,
Be it ever so broad and unique,
If it cannot be thoroughly drained?
If in spite of a gulp there remained

A small silver fishy or three?
The value is tricky to see.
It's a jump from Ecology's groove,
And Darwin would never approve.

You empty your beak in a trice.
Anything less brings a price.
Who wants to take to the air
With a couple of fish flapping there?

A beak that is still quarter full?
It's hot air! A load of old bull!
But...maybe it's picked up the knack
Of always arranging a snack!

Stephen Whiteside 28.02.2013