If I was a sparrow,
I'd fly into a tree,
And though a creature very small,
The world my home would be.
If I were an eagle,
I'd soar a mountain top.
My vision soon would spot its' prey,
And swoop in eager flight.
If I were a seagull,
I'd breath the ocean air.
Grab sandwiche crusts and other scraps
Of which I would not share.
If I was a lark,
The sweetest song I'd sing,
For when the world was still and dark,
A morning hymn I'd bring.
If I was a robin,
I'd peck through frozen ground.
Bring joy to every English man
Each Christmas morning found.
If I was a cuckoo,
I'd take what was not mine.
But couldn't be a happy bird
So shabbily to feign.
But I am not a sparrow,
An eagle or a lark.
A solitary seagull,
A robin or peacock.
I've never been a cuckoo,
For God made me a child.
But I can still imagine,
A bird's own special world.
That is JUST the kind of help I was looking for Lesley-Anne, thank you for taking the time to do this and for the great suggestions.
I do like it, Elizabeth. I think it could make a lovely children's book… with illustrations being a big component. I would take a look at the word choices… making sure they would all be understood by a small child… 'feign' might not work. 'If I was', or 'If I were'… I'd choose one of these and repeat it each time. I can envision the last illustration being of a beautiful child, perhaps with a bird in it's outstretched hand… I think it will be a wonderful book, bedtime story. Hope that helps… :)
Thanks for sharing Cathy. I know that writers' styles of composing are very different!
Although I've already done some writing I am presently trying to get an outline of where I want to go with the book. I know I want some old picture, certificates, a map etc. included, but am wondering if I should go with Chapters or Parts 1 - 4. I'm also continuing my research.
I guess I need validation. I think a child would enjoy reading this in the form of a small storybook, a stanza per page. You're correct about the age thing also. Children grow up so fast today! Typically I don't stress about nouns and verbs, correct meter etc. When inspired I write and then edit several times so it just 'sounds' right. This has always worked for me. Basically I just want to know if you like it or if you think little ones would like it. Many thanks Lesley Anne.
Hello, Elizabeth… thanks for asking for my input. What precisely are you looking for? If you give me some guidance, I could and would be honoured to critique for you. I do like the concept of a book for young children… perhaps slightly younger than this… I see it more 4-8 year olds… but again, please share your thoughts.