Swamp Maples of Back River

Early October

Autumn makes its slow entrance,

vibration of brilliant red

finally settles on swamp maples

that line shore of Back River,

while oaks retain their drab green.

A solitary gull flies low

over sun-sparkled lake

as October’s golden light

illuminates purple clouds.

Soon bulbs will be buried,

before the first freeze,

our hope for an early spring.

Lainie Senechal