Near perfect contrast,
Pale green and pink;
Ferny, feathery awl-covered twigs
On red-brown, angular sticks;
Wind born, creamy, drifting
Seed spreading everywhere--
Short, but satisfactory.

Secreter of Isis,
Protector of Osiris,
Adopted here for roots and tenacity,
But seen now as the
"Seti" of the Colorado--
Mere foodstuff for Chinese beetles.

But there when you need him:
Cover by the river,
Shade-shelter in the desert,
Thick-enough screen
Along the roadside.
Adequate, I suppose, random friend
With benefits.

LMH 26-27 June 15

08/21/2015

Author's Note: Life on the alkali flats

Posted on 08/21/2015
Copyright © 2024 Leonard M Hawkes