Pigeon: An anecdote

Rishabh Baid
Jul 27, 2017 · 2 min read

I love building castles — in the air. It’s my childhood hobby and I have pursued it sedulously.

A few days ago, I was standing in the passageway outside my flat in Jodhpur, when I observed a pigeon lying on the floor just a few steps away. It was still. Curious as I was, I kept staring at him for few minutes and then it dawned on me that it has lost the ability to fly. It made me kinda sad. I imagined if I were him, what would I experience — waiting for my imminent end. Worse, with no other of my kind to comfort, to listen to me, and finally to deliver a eulogy when I am gone. Alone — with maimed wings and little hope of being revived, I will be there forever.

An innocent looking pigeon.

Thoughts teleported me to 1990’s at my previous home in Calcutta — city of joy — where I am looking through a window overlooking a small square hole, observing two pigeons making love. I am armed with a toy gun — one with small rounded yellow bullets loaded into it — which if aimed accurately can cause substantial damage to those blissful lovers. Shots are fired; it hits one of them; I grinned.

I am back to Jodhpur, I cringed. I want to expiate my past sins but I can’t, I can never imagine myself holding any animal — living or dead — with my bare hands. I am not a vet, I am a vegetarian. I can’t save anyone’s life. I possess him again, getting critical of every passing figure, judging which one might step on me, crush me. I am sweating. Deep breathing isn’t helping me much, I try to fly but I can’t, I look around for help — not a single helpful soul. I curse every single species surviving on this planet. I wouldn’t have lasted this long, I assure myself. He is certainly more courageous, I don’t deserve to be a pigeon.

Lunch is ready, quick, it’s 2'o clock — yells Mom. Aye, I am coming. Today, my favorite vegetable— lady-finger — will be served.

Welcome to a place where words matter. On Medium, smart voices and original ideas take center stage - with no ads in sight. Watch
Follow all the topics you care about, and we’ll deliver the best stories for you to your homepage and inbox. Explore
Get unlimited access to the best stories on Medium — and support writers while you’re at it. Just $5/month. Upgrade