Favored Neighbor

For months

you've worn your emerald gown

it made you look - 

plump, 

lively lush and verdant frills 

that moved in harmony with every breeze 

Today, 

you gave a glimpse of tomorrow's trend - 

a teasing tinge of tangerine, 

a blush of bittersweet -

my favorite frock 

in your wardrobe 

Strut your stuff proudly, 

good neighbor, 

until it is time for you 

to bare all come winter...

Author's Note

There is a tree on the lawn across the street from my house. It can be seen perfectly from my living room window. I watch the seasons change on her branches...

Reviews

[ImSJ]

"that moved in harmony with every breeze" I very much admire this line. A real gem it is. The rest is pretty good, too. Your works are quite accessible with wonderful clarity.

[Rita L. Sev]

Thank you so much, SJ.

[jacob erin-cilberto]

in the autumn of life, the colors shine most vibrantly...we are much like the trees, most noticed right before the culmination of life, just before our winter.

beautiful poem...makes me think of my mother...
thank you for this, Rita.

jacob

[Rita L. Sev]

Thank you, Jacob. I am humbled by your words, and so glad this piece gave you some comfort...

[AprilRN1210]

from the beautifully done metaphor to the playful alliteration throughout this is exquisite.. I sense the sassy personality of this tree.. I am quickly becoming a fan.. I enjoy the way you skillfully transport me into your imagery and emotion. always entertaining.. this one teases the mind with rich descriptions and your apparent appreciation for the beauty of nature.. I adore this piece..

[Rita L. Sev]

Thank you, April! Living in the city, I appreciate every bit of nature that presents itself. :) I am so thrilled you enjoyed this!

[AprilRN1210]

you're more than welcome girl.. it is always a pleasure.. It shines through in this piece.. like I said, you made her feel sassy:)

[Renée]

Love this piece RIta !
I to have a favorite tree… they really do become a good friend! Watching them change with the seasons.. Scandalous in fall with the orange and reds !

[Rita L. Sev]

Such showy colors she wears! ;) I hope my neighbor never cuts this tree down - It is framed perfectly in my window... Thanks. Renee!

[Sami Khalil]

"Strut your stuff proudly,
good neighbor,
until it is time for you
to bare all come winter..."

[Pryde Foltz]

Strut your stuff proudly,
good neighbor,
until it is time for you
to bare all come winter…

Splendid … splendid!!! How I love fall.

[Rita L. Sev]

It is a regal season! Thanks, Pryde!

[Lyn Anderson]

What a nice way to describe the transition. Your writing never disappoints.

[Rita L. Sev]

Thank you, KL - I really love this tree!

[hansi]

I guessed it before I read your note. What a nice idea? If I had such tree in my little garden too! However you've got a good sensitivity to the nature.

[Rita L. Sev]

I really do love that tree - I hope my neighbors never cut it down! Thank you, Hansi!

[Beccy]

A lovely poem throughout. Autumn wears so many beautiful colours and you have captured this perfectly.

Even your author's note is a poem.

Beccy.

[Rita L. Sev]

Thank you, Beccy! :)

[Damien Thibodeaux]

Great use of metaphor. The change has not started in the deep south yet. You paint such a beautiful picture. After reading your poem, I can envision the trees changing when I close my eyes. You're so good!

[Rita L. Sev]

Thank you for such kind words, Damien!