Jupiter, above my backyard, at dusk (Image by author)

For Twilight Comes

The light fades from view, draining sky of its blue
sooner today than yesterday, upon dimming
clouds’ late summer shrug. A youngling’s

paradoxically mature leaves reflect retreating light
greater than majestic firs, but it too will yield
to darkness, youthful promise embraced by

earth’s shade. A confused rooster serenades
our good earth’s face turning away from our day.
He is joined by pampered, overfed dogs,

for the coyote song was forever silenced by
boxy condos where wetlands once came alive
at this hour. After the golden hour became

a greying sliver, the hues bowing-out,
merging with dusk till it is unclear where
one fence ends, and another begins,

all becomes clear and fair as shades of grey
fade to black, leaving only twinkling untouched
overhead, for twilight comes for us equally.
***

Written for Real Toads Weekend Mini Challenge: Let Evening Come, hosted by  Kim M. Russell.