Today marks the vernal equinox and first day of spring—a beloved time of year. Perhaps because my birthday comes along with the season, the arrival of springtime happenings (greenness, jonquils, morning bird songs, warmer weather, budding trees, brighter days) is a source of supreme delight. Conversely, fall is my least favorite season. This is evidenced in the poem below, written exactly six months ago on the autumnal equinox.

fading daylight hints its approaching

the rustling cues my lament and loathing

hustled, leaves surrender verdant hues

a pall befalls every branch in view.

its cooled breath, a cause to brood

déjà vu dreading of a bluest mood.

never ushered, seemingly flung in

the season liked least of them

alas, here again: autumn.

ava wood