The Skin of Birds

Why is a feather so beautiful? We do not revel in the fallen skin flakes of our own bodies, in the torn off scabs and little broken strands of hair. We do not love the scales of fish or the spikes of porcupines, but we love the feathers of birds. They are regal in their separation from the source, beautiful in their departure. Unlike our own skin, which disgusts us, the skin of birds is beautiful.