Leaves, waiting, cling to cold branches
on trees beside a watercourse,
restless, brittle, resolute.
They twirl in solemn anticipation,
green life gone; spring breath lost –
swift passing season.
Brilliant light sweeps across frozen mesquite and sage,
gathers in rock, cliff, wash, basin,
severs – quiet, unknown mystery – the last hold.
They come down – wintry life swirling in the desert wind.
___________________
Reno, Nevada – 1989