Lying Leaves

In days when the blue sky makes sunshine appear small

My feet shuffle the curlicued playing cards of fall

I press freezing footprints in titanium-capped lawns

Dreading the day when the grass will be gone.

The hours between nights become fewer with time

While twilit clouds reflect the tress, glowing clementine

The world so awash in fine metals and fire

Is deceptive in her hues, the wind proves her a liar.

It washes away the glitter, exposing cold skin

And with each leaf I crunch I await Winter's end.