Cocoon
Dec 21 2009


The shortest day,
a few seconds less
than yesterday,
according to meticulous astronomical observation.
The sun, setting in the afternoon
unnoticed.
So low, it pours on the windows
horizontal,
illuminating neglected corners;
as if to compensate
for so brief a stay.

From here, lengthening imperceptibly
until 6 months hence,
when the day will seem endless
the heat oppressive
and light
penetrates everything.

But for now, an excuse to eat
to sleep
to dream
through the long luxurious night.
To throw another log on the stove
until the iron box glows;
the flame greedy for fuel,
hypnotizing us
to feed it.

Embers, by morning
grumbling awake in the cold.
Still dark outside,
so I roll over
return to the warm cocoon of covers
and sleep,
at least until first light.