Poems and Thoughts    by Frank Maurer

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Haydn's 'Farewell Symphony' Echoed by My Sparrows' Departures. Haydn's 'Farewell Symphony' was composed in F-sharp minor. An unusual and 'unpleasant' sounding key for the 1772 musical ear. Prince Nicolaus Esterházy decided to remain longer at his summer palace, Disappointing the musicians who missed their families and wanted to go home. Besides the physically-sounding unease of the piece, The musicians slowly departed from the stage during the piece, One at a time, leaving only two musicians remaining. The Prince understood immediately and allowed the musicians to go home. This story in another way, reminded me of the slow departure Of the White- and Golden-crowned sparrows from my farm, Which are now in April, starting their departure to return to the hills; Slowly one by one departing from my home in the valley. I am upset that they must leave my farm, which is sad for me. In the end, both the musicians and the birds, for different reasons, Need to leave and move somewhere else. Thus, my knowledge of music-history and ornithology blend together, To create a musical-animal allegory reflecting my thoughts. Frank Maurer 15 April 2026 1740 Hours.