Autumn Passing

I walked in the low sun on a bed of red and gold
crisping and scrunching the leaves beneath my feet
wrapped up tight in hat and coat, scarf and gloves
breathing in that cool, fresh Autumnal air

Children played on the swings and roundabouts
their innocent laughter and screams filled the park
while mothers talked and clucked like hens
enrapt in chat yet seeing all

The lonely birch among the rest
with slender limbs and silver breast
stood solitary reaching ever upwards
as if to God and universe

A plethora of mighty oaks
encompassed us and made us wonder
at their strength and beauty
their timeless wisdom
and history

The dog that carried back the stick
was yapping, barking, tail waggingly cute
as it circled its owner like an excited child
pleading for more fun

Then I met you!
and all else paled into insignificance
you caught my eye and kept it
entranced by your presence
I just had to look

I was enticed by your beauty
your handsome looks
and confident stride
the contented expression upon your face
that told me you were a worthy catch

Our eyes met and locked
for the fleeting few seconds till we passed
I thought I saw the smallest flicker of a wry smile
play upon your inviting mouth
and a glint in your eyes
was all I needed today.


© Jed Stone 2012
extract from ‘Compendium'
(pen name of JC Gallacher's poetry)