H is for Hawk

by Helen Macdonald

Being a novice is safe. When you are learning how to do something, you do not have to worry about whether or not you are good at it. But when you have done something, have learned how to do it, you are not safe any more.

Mabel held her wings out from her sides, her head snaking, reptilian, eyes glowing. It felt like I was holding the bastard offspring of a flaming torch and an assault rifle.

Living with a goshawk is like worshipping an iceberg, or an expanse of sliprock chilled by a January wind.