Copyright © Diane L. Schirf

Through the tangled shadow web
Through the silken curls of leaves
She appears, half in glory
Half obscured in modesty.

Beginning at the wheat field
Strolling up a hidden arc
Seeking solace from the clouds
When horses neigh, a dog barks.

Soon deserted, she moves on
Leaving a blurred trail of white
As the only evidence
That she has loved and been loved.

She reaches the top, far away
Haughty, like the queen she is
Glancing down at her subjects
But indifferent to their dreams.

Time is her sole enemy
As he gently draws her down
To the underworld she goes
There to rest her weary soul.
We may rise and live again.

1998