raking leaves

oh autumn, thy embrace is cool love
the fall
ing shadows

the tribute of sun
to moon.

this is your decree,
my king, my king, my very king:
though death be at our door
and cold days pierce our flesh
rejoice, for fall
ing shadows.

the sacrifice of light
to pine

this is your kiss
my queen, my queen, my very queen
though your skin is rough
your needling sharp
your perfume is the birth of salvation.

the faith of a warm heart
in the face of darkness

i shall be the prince
of this fall
ing shadow.