Gwen Monohan’s most recent poem to appear here was “Foggiest” (September 2017). 

Change of Tune
By Gwen Monohan

Mockingbirds harmonize in trees,
singing many scores.
Arranging nests and guarding them
from prowling mischief-makers.

Our cat is playing in nearby grass,
stalking any movement.
Caroling birds, chipmunks, moles,
Even once a dancing toad.

Yet this mother bird flies solo.
Prefers instead to fight.
Refraining first with raucous chirps.
Then dive-bombs the cat.