The clouds drift idly above
The afternoon heat is sweltering
Time appears to suspend itself and
An overwhelming wave of lethargy is settling

A blue jay sits on a fragile branch
Of a small tree nearby
The radiant blues of the bird
Standing out from its dull green surroundings
As it rests in the cool shade
Of the leaves swaying gently

It adjusts its position delicately
Now sitting in plain view
Tilting its head towards the sky
Proud, nonchalant and carefree

The coal-black eyes exude a stern, noble air
While the golden afternoon sunlight
Showers the blue jay
Like a blanket of sunshine resting over the feathers
The perfect image ephemeral

The bird leans forward slightly
And his wings flap in a burst of motion
Falling leaves quiver as the bird streaks past
Leaving behind an afterimage of swirling blue feathers