First Rains: a villanelle - Sandra Anfang

[Larry Robinson]

First Rains: a villanelle
 
First rains dampen withered fields today
I watch as soil darkens with its kiss
finches take refuge under the canopy
 
Glued to the sill, my eyes sweep up the bay
where baby whitecaps practice their new tricks
first rains dampen withered fields today
 
I walk the lanes, inhale smells of decay
watch ruddy maples, palettes I have missed
finches take refuge under the canopy
 
I wake to chilly rooms and skies of gray
adore the garden’s leaves, fall’s silvered bliss
first rains dampen withered fields today
 
I root for sweaters, woolen socks allay
the sudden chill that grips me, chaps my lips
finches take refuge under the canopy
 
A week ago, we wished summer away
those sultry months that held us in their grip
first rains dampen withered hearts today
finches take refuge under the canopy

	- Sandra Anfang