Thinking of the Duck in the Bay

The tufted duck on the inlet
that forms Saint Katherine's Docks
Is unaffected by the gentle rain,
unconcerned by the tide,
unworried about the next meal

It will come.

This duck in this bay
paddles from and to and in between
each boat in the harbor
or so it seems
As if she owns the place

It is here.

From my observation perch,
I see people differently
Covered up in technical gear
Hunching, thinking, siren wailing,
Hiding from rain under umbrellas

Smart, I guess.

But what would it be like
To live like this duck or
A common merganser in central London
Free of economic handcuffs
And four-year uncertainties and obligations?

In the here.  Now.