Ah, Spring....!

Heaven's vault is clamped tight
this day, refusing entry or exit
even its crown jewel captured
shut tight of its light and warmth.
Trapped below is a penetrating
dampness and cold, and a 
bellowing wind under the dark
sky's grey atmosphere, moaning
through the forest canopy
unmercifully shifting masts
of forest giants, creaking in
futile protest. Packed tight on
the forest floor a melt-grimed
worn carpet of snow and ice
rude detritus of a winter season
testament that nature has been
tardy in her spring renewal. The
hoarse caws of gathering crows
sound harshly above, lightened
by the bell-like clarity of a
cardinal's welcome to spring
somewhere distant on the horizon.