Caroling Dusk/Snow in October
SNOW IN OCTOBER
Today I saw a thing of arresting poignant beauty:A strong young tree, brave in its Autumn fineryOf scarlet and burnt umber and flame yellow,Bending beneath a weight of early snow,Which sheathed the north side of its slender trunk,And spread a heavy white chilly afghanOver its crested leaves.
Yet they thrust through, defiant, glowing,Claiming the right to live another fortnight,Clamoring that Indian Summer had not come,Crying “Cheat! Cheat!” because Winter had stretchedLong chill fingers into the brown, streaming hairOf fleeing October.
The film of snow shrouded the proud redness of the tree,As premature grief grays the strong headOf a virile, red-haired man.