In Canada, after the long Winter
Everyone looks
For the respite of Spring
The first Robin to appear
Is a hopeful sign
But does not mean
Winter dregs are completely over
A few more winter storms
May yet come before Spring
But when the Barn Swallows
Are back from the South
Everyone takes their ease
To see these small birds
Sitting in a row
On the telephone wire
Or dipping and pivotting in air
With sophistication and grace
Means Spring has arrived at last.