Derecho

Tiny eyelashes blink
against mountain cheeks. 

Lightning.

The summer storm soaks everything;
a symphony played fortissimo 
on upturned, yellowing leaves.

The locals say the river runs tame,
at least until released.

But tonight, it may make parole,
as the porch quivers below, 
and a broken wing inside me
beats unevenly.

Thunder is no gentlemen. 

The sullen sky sneers 
at the stars they smother.

Sweat pours down my sky light 
in black and white stripes.

Nature is a spiteful mother,
exorcising her demons,
and after several hours mesmerized,
I burrow under covers 
and try to ignore her bullying.

Artwork: Hannah E. Johnson

11 responses to “Derecho”

Colleen M. Chesebro

Your imagery is stunning. I love seeing the world through your eyes and words.

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1. K. F. Hartless
  
  Thank you. This storm was something else. I just jotted down stuff the whole evening long, so I was glad to find time to hammer on them. 💜
  
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  1. Colleen M. Chesebro
    
    Your imagery is the perfect example of how we should look at our experiences and share them in ways we can all connect with. I strive to write like this. 💟
    
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  2. K. F. Hartless
    
    You writing is so beautiful, Colleen. I am so glad that we are connected through WordPress.
    
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  3. Colleen M. Chesebro
    
    Thank you, K. I learn so much from you and other poets. Thank you.
    
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Michele Lee

It is a joy to read your creative lines! 👏🏻

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1. K. F. Hartless
  
  A heart-warming comment. Thank you, friend.
  
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  1. Michele Lee
    
    Truth! My treat, K.
    
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  2. K. F. Hartless
    
    💜😊
    
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johnlmalone

great imagery; love the first six lines —

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1. K. F. Hartless
  
  Thank you, John. I had a lot of jotted notes that night in a strange place wondering if it could possibly keep raining any longer. I think this one could use some time and tinkering.
  
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