Squirrel, and: The Promise

TWO POEMS Sue Adsmond SQUIRREL Trip as a troll upon my swinging bridge And dance across my mossy slime playground. Sample the huckleberries in my cache I've hid, And summit the ridge with assured bounds. When at the height take a quick glance down, View the simpleton's finely constructed hut, And fly from plywood platform to wormy chestnut. Tumble the stones and pause at my brook, Laugh in unrestrained giggles At man's attempt to till the land he took From you in his immigrant boldness. Grow fat upon your winter vittles, And trip as a troll upon my swinging bridge. THE PROMISE Appalachia, Politicians assert, Renders Kentucky only preadults and Those whose guarantees have expired. Flatter, northern cities Reap muscled virility (swelling peas) simple elegance (sunny-hued corn) Of migrant factory man. Magnetically journeying Home at week's end, He leaves remnants of a Foreign, flatlander existence; Derelict Detroit autos, Skidrow Dayton refrigerators, Destitute Milwaukee beer cans — Uttering a eulogy for disposables. Nature carries high her reverent, uplifted chin, Whispering, "I'll wait for you. You'll return." 80 ...