Storm Tree by Helen V. Lundt

Storm Tree


Invisible hands bend limbs of white birch
to shelter red petals and ferns from harsh rain.
Stems swirl 'round as a fan might revolve -
litter's like loose leaves' own hurricane.

Intense heat meets cool air in one clash.
Together they sound their loud boom.
Instantly gold shatters up and down,
cracks open the black clouds' womb.

It's empty now of all there was
while over my head, thunder rumbles
distant sounds, fading fast,
like an old man's gripes and grumbles.

So quiet, I hear just one little chirp,
then sun brings yellow and blue birds thrive.
Great white birch straightens tall once more,
for all is well, the storm it's survived.

by Helen V Lundt