feel
the thrum
of a ruffed grouse
mating call
as it
beats
beneath my breastbone
asking after me.
ruffled my feathers, too.
***
pine boughs
like a lover’s caress
feather
down
my back.
spent, red
bed
of needles
whispering promises
of the green winter to come.
***
foliage
fanning flames
burn orange, scarlet, yellow
screaming
peals of atomic thunder
lick
‘cross the ridge.