Scattered detritus
reminiscent of past glories
lay discarded on a garden table
blown or thrown together – who knows
Autumn leaves fading
from green
to yellow
to orange and brown
brittleness creeping through them
as their summer glory ebbed away
Was that delicate petalled pink flower
artificial and worn as a hair decoration –
together with the pearl necklace and heart pendant
while the wearer danced life away
her hopes all beaded on one string
That broke and scattered her dreams
like fading detritus on a garden table
while all around her
donned a reticent tight lipped mask
their only message – it will get better
hope will return when winter passes and spring dawns
©Verity Short
