Cold Weather Comes

America tilts as the earth grinds in quiet upon its set way, and

Out of the north comes the cold air,

Settling upon the country,

Causing linoleum to curl and

Causing animals to lower their heads,

Hunker down.

In country rooms the cold penetrates every object,

Driving out whatever warmth was left

By yesterday’s weakling sun.

In towns, villages, streeted cities

Muffs appear, gloved hands grasp coat lapels,

Cheeks stop sensing,

Plants count on this cold to kill,

Slough off last summer’s spent growth.

Cold prevails, pervades, conquers all.

--November 16, 2013