Breath of Autumn

Breath of Autumn
By Joan Spoon


Warm moist air
Turns cold and crisp.
Warm interior air
Exhales as dancing sprites.

Deep earth hearbeat
Slows towards winter
As people rush to fulfill
Fall’s promise of fresh start.

Sensations of crunch
In step, in taste, in sound.
Light no longer lush
But delicate.

The earth breathes differently
Preparing to hibernate
As people increase activity
Preparing for holidays.


Joan Spoon loves her garden, her pets, and her students. She writes, paints, and plays piano whenever she can.