South Coast Complexion

by Krista Allen

You can keep your vapid oak leaves

Vibrance gone before they leap

Tumble, wither, crack, crumble

Bittersweet decor takes center stage

Blossoms of disparate colors

Yellow, red, invasive baubles

Salicornia wading near the Back Eddy

Fiery portent setting marsh grass alight

Littoral candy cane bundles

Mums petty moment in the spotlight

Quickly we mourn their passing

Ignored, perennial fumble

Sumac, not just a fiery herald

Press it, add yeast, patience, and a stopper

Burgundy spirit cajoled

Gingko stands in as sunshine ebbs

Ancient, exotic fans

Dazzle, drop, ruffled lemony rubble

Goldenrod maligns your senses

Dessicated fairies

Flit, fizzle, forcing forgiveness for summer’s exile

– Krista Allen