How to Build an Owl

by Kathleen Lynch

1. Decide you must.
2. Develop deep respect
   for feather, bone, claw.
3. Place your trembling thumb
   where the heart will be:
   for one hundred hours watch
   so you will know
   where to put the first feather.
4. Stay awake forever.
   When the bird takes shape
   gently pry open its beak
   and whisper into it: mouse.
5. Let it go.