Blackberry Winter

In the cool springtime of blackberry winter,
In the sunlight of a cloudless morning
Before the summer heat sets in,
For one day, or even just one hour,
We will sing, rejoicing for no reason
Beyond the sensuality of inspiration.

Winter dulled our senses, leaving
Ice thickened on the front doorway,
Snow mounded by the gate, and we were buried
Barely breathing, waiting for the sun
Tracking from south to north, resurrecting
Reminiscence without accusation.

We will lift our hearts in the cool morning
Until all the songs are sung that must be sung
Before the weather turns, and we are sped
Into the cauldron of activity
That drives us in the frantic summer months,
Bringing the berries to fruition.

April, 2026