(On the island of Cuba, there are female humming birds that measure 2 centimetres. In flight, the heart of this bird beats 1000 times a minute. [ABC documentary]) I see her with her needle mouth standing on the air, and feel the weight of beating life that she must bear. Her eyes like ardent gemstones flick around her space; each numbered quill’s a miracle in its appointed place. Thrilling, she knows the stasis of blood-beat, heart and wing, holding her cupped in life’s fine frame – the little, shocking thing.