SWANS

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Oh dear, oh dear, the swans are here,
The wild swans from Siberia,
For they have come much earlier
Than they have done for many a year;
I'm told it foretells harsh winter chill:
The old will be cold, and many will be ill.

Dear swans, you know I love you dearly,
Your glorious song, your grace and beauty;
But darling swans, it is your duty
Not to come so very early.

Beloved swans, fly home again,
And come here later,
So that our winter weather is better,
For if you do not, I will put you in a sack;
By train or plane I will send you back:

To make our winter easier,
Stay longer in Siberia,
And grant us the boon of not returning too soon,
Or I will send you back again!

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Note: Bewick's Swans, which nest in Siberia, migrate every autumn to other countries including Britain. In 2010 many arrived 3 weeks earlier than usual. which according to folklore means a cold winter to come.