Something Like Home

Birds symbolize freedom, happiness, intelligence, and reflection. Laura’s favorite animal, birds fascinate her and remind her of happy times with Dad: “but at least that means I can look at birds, / which I’m actually pretty good at identifying / ‘cause Dad is basically an expert / and he taught me well” (46). When her family was united, Laura was as unencumbered and free as birds. From facts about the woodpecker to flamingos, birds represent this freedom and contentment she felt with her family. These animals connect her to her parents in their absence. Therefore, she seeks birds out for comfort and joy, such as finding solace at the pond with geese.

Birds also aid in personal reflection. Laura uses birds and their patterns as a lens to view her situation, herself, and others. In the second poem, her owl shirt hints at this connection: “Most birds don’t recognize their family members / after more than a year has passed. / So it makes sense that I’m wearing / my favorite owl shirt / as I stare at a woman [Silvia] I don’t recognize” (3). Sometimes, Laura can only fathom her changing life in terms of birds. For instance, she shares a strong link to sparrows.