HERE IN NEW ENGLAND

Let us celebrate the coming of fall

By biting in to a freshly picked apple

The likes of which can only be found

In the small, rocky orchards

That dot the fields and hillsides

Here in New England.

Crisper than crisp

With a tartness that reflects

The taciturnity and sharpness

Characteristic of the hardy people

Who have cast their lot in life

Here in New England.

With a red that reflects

Leaves of frost-touched wetland sumac

And a touch of green not only recalling

Summer’s past, but also inviting dreams

About the spring to follow the coming snow,

Here in New England.

A New England apple is a rite of passage,

A microcosm of the annual procession

Of our world’s minuet around the sun,

We celebrate the passing seasons

With every wonderful, juicy bite,

Here in New England.

-Chip Bergeron

 September 23,2012