J. Scott Shields

Bright autumn leaves shine yellow, gold, and red
Adorning groves of aspens thick and strong;
In fading light they shimmer overhead
Accompanied by notes of sparrows’ songs.
Below volcanic mountains grasses sway
Blown by gusty winds swept o’er the peaks.
Once lushly green, they’ve reached their final days;
With flowers gone, they shrivel and grow weak.
Above the alpine meadow skies unfurl
A sunset palette splashed with fiery hues;
Blazing plumes of pink and orange swirl
Until night’s inky cloak their embers cool.
As frigid air descends and spreads new frost
Each fragile clinging leaf will bear the cost.