Jacarandas.

JACARANDAS

   The jacarandas are in bloom again
   and lavender blossoms are falling everywhere,
   announcing the beginning of summer here,
   in Claremont, California, this small town
   of old houses, colleges and trees,
   where I have lived for over thirty years.
   In early June, the blossoms bloom and fall,
   each lavender blossom like a little bell,
   and their summer anniversary makes me smile.
   Some hidden rhythm at the heart of things
   summons them here each year to light and glory,
   but the flowers bloom for only a little while,
   and I am also in this rhythm's thrall,
   and know, one summer, when the flowers come,
   no one will find me here at this address.
   A fading memory then, my name and face.

   Some hidden rhythm at the heart of things
   brings lavender blossoms snowing everywhere.
   Days are passing, brief and beautiful.
   The jacarandas are in bloom again.

--MICHAEL CREAGAN