If I Were a Duck (or a Coot)

If I were a duck, I would not muck
Around in other people’s business.
I’d swim all day (the pure-duck way)
In the spell of nature’s deliciousness.

If I were a coot, I would not loot
The world of all its bounty.
I’d dabble here, and dabble there—
Then fly to the next county.

If I were a duck I would not suck
the bone of all its marrow.
I’d drop from above to the lake I love
And eat no more than a sparrow.

If I were a coot I would not shoot
Another bird with a rifle.
That miscue --mad humans do--
Even over a trifle!

If I were a duck I could not truck
With all this greed and shouting.
I’d fulfill my needs among the reeds
Dabbling, dredging, moulting.

But I am a man and know my clan
Will never stop their madness.
If I could just fly --through the azure sky--
Perhaps I’d lose this sadness!