Magpies laugh at us, says Säverman

As the summer heat gives way to a cool, gray morning, the author finds a stark contrast between the mood of humans and the seemingly joyful antics of magpies.

While humans are occupied with the serious business of preserving fruits, tending to gardens, and performing various chores, the magpies are observed gathering around a rusty wheelbarrow filled with water, engaging in what appears to be their bathing season. Their chattering and flapping are described as sounding like "a dozen heavily fired steam engines struggling out of sync up a hill."

The author notes that during the recent heatwave, the magpies feasted on cherries while the thrushes pecked at meager worms. Now, in the cooler weather, the magpies continue their boisterous activity, seemingly indifferent to the availability of black or red currants. Their presence is marked by scattered black and gray feathers, described as shiny as anthracite.

This observation leads to a reflection on the magpies' seemingly tireless, cackling laughter. The author expresses envy for their unflagging cheerfulness, especially when contrasted with the human endeavors of the day – the preserving, cleaning, reading, writing, and fixing. The magpies, in their simple enjoyment of a bath, embody a carefree spirit that stands in sharp relief to the more laborious existence of humans.