Send In the Crows
by Job Conger
Neighborhood birds
Sang in the trees:
Larks, robins, sparrows and bold chickadees.
Send in the crows.
Send in the crows.
Creatures of flight
Soared far and wide.
As I rejoiced down below, I was not satisfied.
Send in the crows.
There have to be crows.
(refrain)
After I freed my cockateel,
Sensing how bitter, depressed and confused he must feel,
I turned my eyes to the rainbow of unfettered souls:
Prim Cardinals, bright Orioles.
But I’ve never cared
For pigeons who thrive,
Leaving their droppings all over my sidewalk and drive.
Send in the crows.
Send in the crows.
Braggarts in black,
Big as a swan,
Chase all the fat flying poop-wings to hither . . . .and yon.
Send in the crows.
Send in the crows.
In quietude
Of wintery new year
All of the tunesters are gone; walk and driveway are clear.
Send in the crows.
Send in the crows.
Don’t bother. They’re here.
written January 22, 1997
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This was written after my far more popular parody Send In the Cows, both based on the Stephen Sondheim song Send In the Clowns. On a dreary Sunday afternoon, the words made more of a positive impression on me than usual. I hope they work as well with you. 
Live long . . . . . . . and proper.
