The mathematician talks of flocking:
the collective assemblage of like forms;
to do with central tendencies, stocking
efficiencies (see the way the bee swarms).
It’s all about clustering formations,
and the non-random shape of a system.
It’s all about patterns and representations,
and how nature does its best to twist them
into combinations of advantage.
The V-shape of Canadian geese,
the shuffling of penguins, edge-to-edge;
best use of energy and fuel’s release.
. It’s through use …  a solution’s shape is found.
. Nature’s cleverness is to motive bound.

Copyright, Tim Grace, 6 December 2011

To the reader: Patterns form to establish efficient relationships. A functional pattern of behaviour will serve some purpose and deliver some benefit. It will be useful and convenient; at best, powerful and protective. Geese do the power-flock to conserve individual energy in flight. Penguins perform the protective-flock as they shuffle to insulate the pack from cold. The interesting thing about flocking is that it’s a collective intelligence constructed through the system for individual benefit. Belonging is a self-serving commitment to and for the common good.

To the poet: Playing with a natural phenomenon is an interesting poetic exercise. Usually, the idea will be sparked by a snippet of science that reveals a curious insight. A little research is essential and useful in delivering a glossary of terms. As with the ‘flocking’ theme, it’s often the case that the idea will have already gained public interest and momentum as a talking point. A poet’s work is to play with ideas, to express them creatively; in memorable shape and form.