at the dawn of December
across frozen fields
yelping dogs, chasing scents
frosty breath, rosy cheeks
under grey, angry clouds
snowflakes fall, stealing warmth
yet at the forest’s edge
the vine emerges
against the monochrome
dangling tiny tangerines
enchanting, delighting
and for a moment, sadness departs
nature’s gift of colour
during dark December days
Notes: we have a new dog in our family so we have been embarking on many walks. One of the local meadows is lined with impressive hedgerows and within the brambles the bittersweet vines (both the invasive and native variety) are visible. They are easy to stop in late autumn since the leaves have all dropped so the orange/red fruits really pop (Although delightful to look at, they aren’t for eating!)
Bittersweet is an emotion that can resonate strongly this time of year; December can be beautiful but it also can have a touch of melancholy. Personally I am finding that my creative energy has waned significantly lately: it is a struggle to write and draw. But the joy of nature especially with the surprising brightness of the bittersweet berries is a respite.
© Christopher M Buddle 2023
Nature's Reverie 