Leaves arrange for night,
the aroma of dark green
stays close to the branches
crickets capture a
cruel cadence
velvet breezes close
the roses and day lilies
reed tops lightly rustle
a sandpaper hymn
fireflies light a path
to the nearest screen door
flashing creative energy
everything is painted
with coolness,
a reverent covering
we are south of the river
where blackbirds settle
in at dusk
day ends
achieving its goal
without remorse