Bumper Crop

The highway stretches
a hot grey ribbon
frenzied traffic evaporating
over the horizon
while on either side
wide green spaces, trees
introduce the country
to the city beyond.

Nervously facing traffic
the juvenile groundhog waits
mustering momentum for crossing.
If it manages one double lane
a boulevard will render rest
encouragement for the other half.

Does it know
that wild thing
why it must make
that crossing?

Does it notice
far beyond on the other side
the activity there?
Crows, undertakers
       carrion-eaters
zealously perform their function.