FALL RISES UP NORTH

Open your eyelids
and welcome the dim, clouded sunrise.
Breathe deep the crisp morning air
as it seeps in the old, cracked windowpane
I left open all night.
Squint your eyes
and watch the sheer purple curtain
glow slightly
and blow lightly
against the low bookshelves.
Awaken your nose
to the aroma of the heater
in its ceremonial burning of the dust
that has accrued all summer long.
Open your ears
and listen to the raindrops
as they patter
on the freshly fallen leaves.
Hear the teapot
quiver as it whispers
its song of fruition.

Prop yourself up
in my unkempt bed
of feathers and fleece,
and open your hands
to an oversized mug
filled with the warmth and fragrance
of vanilla and cinnamon.

I will lounge beside you
with my legs wrapped in yours,
and we will sip chai tea
and cleanse our souls
with words of enlightenment
and self-discovery.
We will exchange flirtatious glances
and share kisses
in between readings
of our favorite poets
and mantras.

So come and make your home in my bed,
as Fall rises from the aftermath of Summer,
and we will become
the centerpiece
of Autumn’s greatest work of art.