After the Storm
(inspired by a painting by Thomas Kinkade)

Winds have buffeted the tiny town all day.
Lightning crackled through edgy streets,
as sheets of driving rain
formed stippled lakes,
confining villagers to doorways and porches.

Shifting breezes coax the rumbling tempest
from drenched byways, where running rivers
slow to slicked pavement.
Skies lighten in time to welcome evening.
Wisps of clouds scatter, as if rushing home.

Dripping houses shed dappled light on sodden sidewalks.
Scent of saturated blossoms and trees
infuses lifting mist with spring.
Birds emerge, calling their night song
as locals scurry to finish errands delayed,
before the darkness.

© 2010 Katharine L. Sparrow