Seasonal

The tastes of autumn now have given way
To winter flavors, deeper, more intense.
The falling leaves now stand for yesterday
While snowdrifts pile up against the fence.
We wander almost blinded by the cold
Among the relics of a broken fall,
Which now seem sadder, as they melt away.
The days are shorter, and the nights feel old
Before they reach their limit; a thick shawl
Of darkness covers up the start of day,
As if for comfort. Winds that once were breezes
Now chill us deep inside, where we light fires
To push away the fear. As winter freezes
We will forget the hope that spring inspires.