Unkindness of Ravens

Having time to write more than usual, I am experimenting with images and words. A group of ravens is called an unkindness of ravens. I wanted to use a number of references in this song including a murder of crows, a parliament of owls, a descent of woodpeckers, a siege of herons, etc. In the end, I kept coming back to an unkindness of ravens and gradually that particular term became the dominant image. Ravens are associated with warfare, battle, and death. They are also linked with prophecy. With a bit of light spring snowfall one day I was inspired to complete a chorus that references Lady Macbeth. There is a lot going on image wise, but I tried to keep the mix of light and dark in a tight structure.

Unkindness of Ravens

Unkindness of ravens Dark wings on the pavement They sing for their payment While standing their ground The bottomless battle The throat of death’s rattle A soft Adam’s apple An ominous sound

Chorus:

I’ve been feeling much better The days I don’t remember Falling snow on afternoons Yet, here’s a spot, a spot or two Unkindness of ravens In shadows are waving

Like coal mine canaries With burdens to bury Too heavy to carry They tarry awhile So death on a cold cold day You’ve come such a long long way To stand in the doorway You’ve wasted your time

Chorus