“Decision” by Leslie Clason

Leslie Clason

DECISION

The dogs have barked
the usual warning:
earthquake, eclipse, or thunder.
Still when the storm hits
I am not ready, suddenly
afraid of this growing dark.

Finding myself between
wind and water, I am
wheeling crazy as a storm petrel,
circling again and again
the rock in the river.

The squall pulls east, then west,
until the moon is lost.
When the trees test their roots,
I ask the same question—
whether to hold fast or let go.

from Rattle #8, Winter 1997

__________

Leslie Clason: “An Oregon poet, I spend my days writing, supporting local education campaigns, and exploring the world with my small son Zane.”

Rattle Logo