The man does not mind being vulnerable Does not mind letting us see That in his heart and head live birds, Nothing but birds and air.

He tries to look like everyone else With his big stick, coat and hat, But inside there is nothing but this singing. He is bewildered. What can he do?

He comes and sits down in the art gallery, Attracted by the pictures of birds And suddenly, for him, time stops. He does not care if he ever moves again.

He has all at once become a teacher, Has found himself, his destination And the right surroundings for his birds.

Kate Evans’ poems are from Journey into Healing, published by Survivors’ Poetry in 2006 as part of Survivors’ Poetry Mentoring Pamphlet Series. She was mentored by Dave Russell.

Chosen by Femi Oyebode.