on the verge
________________________

the wind is sharp
but here leaned back
into your overcoat
I only feel your arms
around my shoulders
watching as sunshine
lights the blowing leaves

above us a leering pumpkin
keeps watch over the steps
letting us pause there
no rush for that first
cup of coffee -- this
slowness is a pleasant falling

I can feel the warmth
of your breath in my hair
inhale the dusty smell
of fallen leaves
and almost wish the bus
would never come

	-acm (10/97)