TAMWORTH POEMS: TIMING IS EVERYTHING

TIMING IS EVERYTHING

In April, driving north on Route Sixteen,

You top a hill just south of Ossipee

And in your face arise the peaks and flanks

Of Washington and the Presidential Range.

Fiercely white, they reign over the horizon,

An awesome sight you want to keep your eyes on.

But you go on and Chocorua hoves into view,

Clothed with his Sisters in somewhat mottled hues,

And they call out for climbing, but you know

The trails will still be treacherous with snow.

Black ice will subtly coat the shaded rocks,

And slow going may find you still on top

When shadows coalesce around your feet,

The sun beating an all-too-fast retreat.

Some shining prospects should be kept in sight

Until the time for venturing is just right.

(April 2014)