Sun setting behind sparse, shadowy clouds as workers return home from daily toil. Breath mists chill air ahead of their progress. Birds gather in sweeping, roiling flocks, preparing for departure. Nearly naked trees alongside road claw starkly towards the darkening sky, leaves curling in shades of red and yellow at their feet. Pavement glistens with early evening frost, showing footprints of passing of recent travellers.

 

trees divest of leaves

nature’s eternal mandate

anticipated

 

Short sleeves give way to heavy coats. Once mobile hands masked by clumsy gloves. Erstwhile carefree saunter subsumed by determined strides. Concerns of snow and ice dominate conversation.

 

temperature drops

nature’s unvarying plan

so unexpected