Fight or flight or ...?

My swan watching captured quite a few battles during mating season. Tremendous dramatic displays across the lake. The thunderous flap of wings during the chase, followed by the splash and skid of palmate feet on water as they land with dominance determined. Despite the theatre, I did not enjoy the drama. Seeing ‘fight or flight’ in action, I’m reminded that this is a psychological phrase for the ‘stress response’. Relaxation and meditation are often prescribed as an antidote, allowing the choice of equanimity. Adjusting my limited palette, I wanted this piece to exude calm, from a scene of anything but.