Springtime in the Notches
We should have known what April fools
This winter was to make of us.
It piled the snow up to our roofs
While Arctic winds assaulted us.
We looked in vain for signs of spring,
For daffodils and crocuses,
But now in May it’s happening:
The woods are where the action is.
Below these west-wind-blocking cliffs
Beneath their blanket of dry leaves
Shy yellow violets persist
And Dutchman’s breeches are perceived.
Where phoebes and song sparrows peck
The squirrel corn plants its fruity roots.
Wake robin trillium are on deck.
Hepatica promises liver cures.
Dogtooth violets belie their name.
Spring beauties herald what has come
At last, unnoticed, unproclaimed,
Our longed-for time of procreation.
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