For Kurley, wintering wings become a powerful symbol, representing both a state of quiet survival and the vibrant promise of a new beginning.

Dave says, “The butterflies in both stanzas are metaphors for the narrator, I think. In the first stanza, they are surviving, hiding, the only splash of colour, overwintering the cold gray climate. In the second stanza, they are free and light, enjoying the freedom of an existence without a harsh winter.”

Kurley describes the poem’s tone and voice as having “aspects of the reflective, of joy, melancholy, and touches of observation.” He elaborates on this complexity, noting the reflection on his past and present environments. The poem subtly contrasts the narrator’s former and current homes, both physically and emotionally. Kurley sees the poem as “a short meditation on feeling trapped and simply surviving and feeling free and living.”

He speaks of feeling “stifled” and unhappy in his previous life in the UK, where everything felt “cold, damp and grey.” The move to Portugal brought a joyful contrast, a feeling of liberation by wearing summer clothes in the February sunshine and the presence of peacock butterflies overwintering in his home.

Kurley hopes readers will take away a message of hope: “There is always the possibility of change, no matter how difficult a situation may appear.” The image of the butterfly emerging into a warmer world serves as a potent reminder of this potential for transformation.

Kurley’s personal favorite image in the poem is “‘Bright brown butterflies/Flitting in stop-motion/from early bloom to early bloom’.” He describes it as “so full of joy” for him, capturing the essence of newfound freedom and vibrant life.

You can discover more of Dave Kurley’s poetry and photography, including his book ‘Irritating the Silver Lining,’ and follow him on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/badvibrations62.bsky.social

Read Daves Poem in Butterflies Anthology Soon to be Available on Amazon