The Forest Pollinating Meadow

From the summer wind susurrating 

through the forest canopy to the

turbulence of the forest stream

rippling over fallen trunks and

rocks along its raceway the forest

inhales and exhales the essence of

the season, the fragrance of ragweed

and goldenrod, summer's last gasps

seen in a proliferation of fall asters.

In the forest pollinating meadow

where pilotweed, Queen Anne's lace

Himalayan orchids and purple loosestrife

vie with thistles and clover to gain the

attention of hoverflies and bees the

soft fruits of late summer dangle

awaiting capture by curious jaws and

beaks, sun blazing its heat over all.