The flooded fields are slowly sinking back

And sheep now crop where yesterday the geese

Paddled and flapped their way against the wind

To find a little refuge in the leas

Of gorse and bramble, which alone survive

Late autumn's rape of all that summer brought

In lushness, colour and luxuriant warmth.

Will these shallow pools begone before

The first full winter frosts can freeze the ground

Choke up the rabbit runs and leave the fox

To fumble in the bins and rubbish bags

Outside the second homes now double locked?

            And does today's bright sky and gentle wind

             Presage a dubious pace, before the end?

Brian Hick 2009

©copyright S Hick December 2021