Cypress sunrise

Islam’s moon rocking in the
blanching sky above the swamp -
the mallard's intermittent scurry.

Behind the cypress trees,
the sun is cached and tints
the horizon a tacit rose gold;
dissolving into a washed-out hue.

A subdued choir of cicadas
sing in alternating stanzas
and the sparrow answers.

The reality of mosquitos
prances in erratic ambits,
as small fish nudge
the water’s surface.

The diminishing return
after the crescendo
of sunrise draws
thoughts of coffee
and breakfast.


© 2000 Melissa Songer