Hail, bright crescent, when peaches swell with sweet,
and apples bubble out from apple limb.
Phoebe faces west to trill evening hymn;
swallows, in maneuvers subtle and fleet,
prepare for flights south. Canada geese meet
in raucous synod as twilight grows dim.
Bumblebees, most wary of summer’s whim,
glean angelica nectar for their meat —
and primrose, mullein, and ox-eye daisy.
Hydrangea and morning glory recede;
moonberries purple to draw in young wrens,
while queen Anne’s lace spreads a little crazy.
All life prepares to feast on cream and mead,
before cold weather closes seeds and dens.
