Fall Foliage #20

The colors bloom
leaf by leaf
limb by limb
tree by tree
until they explode

dazzling splashscape
toned to brightest vivid
stunningly luminous
in every direction
vistas of epic brilliance.

Scenic Highway

Scarlet, yellow, orange leaves
mixed with chartreuse and evergreens

along roadsides and riverbanks
across cropped fields and wooded hills

never-ending color displays
in garish, patchwork patterns

repetitious gorgeousness
in unrelenting profusion

no relief for eyes and soul
from mesmerizing assault

until sudden shower dampens
this glut of too much damn beauty!

Un-American Flag

The stars and stripes
now confederatized

banner held high
by angry, white men

mean, hateful chorus
on rising redneck tide

justice just for us
nothing for others

drowning out traditions
of decency and reason.