The Cuckoo Clock

Caroline Bowles Southey (1786–1854)

From “The Birthday”

BUT chief—surpassing all—a cuckoo clock!

That crowning wonder! miracle of art!

How have I stood entranced uncounted minutes,

With held-in breath, and eyes intently fixed

On that small magic door, that when complete

The expiring hour—the irreversible—

Flew open with a startling suddenness

That, though expected, sent the rushing blood

In mantling flushes o’er my upturned face;

And as the bird, (that more than mortal fowl!)

With perfect mimicry of natural tone,

Note after note exact Time’s message told,

How my heart’s pulse kept time with the charmed voice!

And when it ceased made simultaneous pause

As the small door clapt to, and all was still.