Written just now, looking out the window to the dead elm tree...only the second one in the last two years.
Maeve, in Maine.
************

Elm Song

Now that the heat is upon us
She has lost her song. Search
In garden rows, in wood and strings;
Search in the dust of sleep.

Now that the heat drums on us
The birds turn in a thick blue sky,
Wheel around the round house, and rest
On dead elm's silver arms.

Now that summer heat breathes on us
Hummingbird conducts from top twig,
Waxwing conversations hush.
Bluebird sings now, soft and cool,

Water to the ear.

(Maeve of Maine)