scarlet-clad trees are torn by
the mockeries of the autumn winds;
summer falls in flames.
clouds lament over flying leaves.
in the valley of dark ferns,
frost spreads a yellow blanket.

my eyes follow a mountain raven
that spreads its wings, black and portentous.
after midnight, the rain pours
and a dark-robed priest comes into my dream
are you the great raven i saw
at the ridge?

he smiles a wry smile and is gone.
i wake to leafless trees
and a shamelessly naked sun