Hello Ben,

I like this, not for its excellent meter, rhyme or for the extending metaphor that fills my head with sea bobbing imagery, but for the poems' format. I have not seen this format before, I like how it depicts the shape of a mast and this fits well with the title (funny pace for a birds nest!), or at least it does for me. So, for that reason only I will nominate you...

to walk the plank!

I too enjoyed the format, and felt the process of coming to a resolution. The thought of possibly returning home, whether that be reconciling with one's past, or realizing at some point you have to face the land, and everything that haunted or haunts you there. I felt many things while reading this. I liked the greater understanding that one can only be gone for so long, before there is a call to return. We're not meant to be lost forever. No matter if we're running away or just hoping to find peace, we have to often confront what either waits ahead or behind us. The imagery here was meaningful, with the metaphor and reflection on how easily we can lose our direction and purpose, so it becomes nearly impossible to see or know the future, to navigate our life... especially when there are obstacles, weights, things to crowd our mind (like the birds).

I loved the subtle rhymes, Dad! I haven't seen a poem like this one before, but I think it's well executed!
Everyone has the urge to return home eventually. I enjoyed how you've portrayed the ship to be broken and battered, as I think it's a metaphor for the weariness and longing to return home, though I could be wrong!
I liked this, it has an excellent story to it :)

Brilliant idea to have each stanza take the form of a mast, expertly written as always Ben.

Your poem flows so beautifully and I wish the same for your ship to make it home. Well-written Ben and I enjoyed this one.

Beautiful. Hope you're doing well. - Jess