The Parrot in the Cage:
"Oh, bird," the parrot in its cage did say, "Unlatch this door, and set me free today. I'm trapped within these bars, confined, you see, Release me to the skies, so I can be."

The Bird’s Reply:
From off her perch, the bird did sweetly sing,
"What kind of life do you so richly bring?
A kingly life, you live quite comfortably. You feast on nuts and fruits, so carelessly. You sleep in golden cages, soft and deep. With all you have, why do you weep and weep?

The Parrot's Plea:
The parrot answered,
"For my freedom's sake,
I've traded comfort for a gilded cage.
With wings to fly, why should I be so meek?
I'd rather touch the sky, however weak.
I'd rather die a pauper, soaring high,
Than live a king in this gilded cage,
and die."

The Bird’s Challenge:
The bird flew closer,
"There's much to fear, Beyond these bars, there’s danger drawing near.
If I unlock your cage, will you be brave?
Will you forsake this life so sweet,
and crave A life of freedom,
filled with toil and strife?
Can you give up your ease for such a life?"

The Parrot's Escape:
The bird unlatched the door, the parrot flew,
"I face the danger, yes, it’s nothing new.
I’ve wasted time in this gilded prison cell. I’ll taste the sky, and fare quite well.
I’ll trade my golden cage and all its grace, For freedom’s sweet embrace."

The Parrot's Joy:
The parrot soared, the bird followed behind,
The parrot plucked a fruit, a treat to find. "Though I've been fed on silver, gold, and plate,
Freedom tastes sweeter, it’s simply great. No more fine dishes, served on silver trays, I’ll dine on berries, all my days."

A New Beginning:
"I’ve spent so long in this gilded cage,
Now I can spread my wings upon the stage.
The world is mine, the skies are wide and free,
A bird at last, as I was meant to be."

-Aditi Hayaran (Larkspur)