I know when it’s spring when the reptiles creep
The lizard emerges from its long winter sleep
Sliding and slithering in its reptilian groove.
It finds its place in this seasonal juve
Then scurrying away when I go too near
Hearing my boots it runs in fear.
I know it’s spring when the magpie’s swoop
And strangers beware in your walking troup
They swoop and dive in a well-formed display
To find their mark at the end of the day
Then warbling away, on a nearby tree
It proudly sits for all to see.
I know it’s spring when the light is right
Sunlight sparkles in the morning light
A myriad of jewels christening the day
Beauty enfolded in Port Phillip Bay.
Then retreating to pink at the gathering dusk
Leaving me enfolded in a cloud of musk.
I know it’s spring when my neighbours are out
Cleaning their gutters in a work-a-day rout.
Of mowing lawns and those vital chores
Written on notes in put-away drawers.
For the Covert Lockdown has had its effect
We make up for months of enforced neglect
Robert Hoskins
