White Bird of Paradise

A blue boat with white sails taking turns to rise
Beside sailors indigo in dress that sail
Among massive fans of green banana leaves--
In sharp shade he grieves.

The tree twists into the sky and butterflies
In brown breathe a baby's breath into the blue
And strong-streaked canoe that's destined not to flee
The cool canopy.

The swift sunbird, iridescent scarlet, tastes
The sweet syrup cargo of the ship, is paid
In gold given to this thirsty messenger
Whose wise words recur.

The blue boat will boldly lift its sails of white
So swift sunbirds, butterflies can bring the words
The tree twists into a song the wind will fail
To sing strong to gale.