Birds of a Feather

I think different birds tend to take on different personas in literature. The bluebird and red bird mentioned in these poems are small and frail songbirds and tend to represent potential and innocence. Ravens and crows, like in Edgar Allen Poe's "The Raven", have more of a foreboding and mystical aura around them. They are associated with witches and warlocks and tend to represent mystery, suspense, and an all seeing eye. Owls are considered wise and regal birds, tending to be the manifestations of great leaders and wise scholars (think Athena from Greek Mythology). Birds as a whole group are also associated with different ideas: freedom and carefree spirits. Poets and writers love the idea of birds because they are free to wander and are not tied down to any particular place or organization.