Southfork River Sonnet
A sliver of river now dappled with rain,
Embraces the melt from the snow-covered ridges,
Dividing the meadows and mountain terrain
As it flows through the canyons, beneath weathered bridges.
From cities they come in the warm summer days,
As they bounce over rocks in their guided plump rafts.
When they cherish adventure, the river obeys,
And the air is resplendent with singing and laughs.
Too soon leaves turn gold and fly free from the trees,
While the river recedes and the levels get low.
The hairy fat elk herds prepare for the freeze,
And the river awaits the fulfillment of snow.
Then cold waters return as they have through the years,
And the river responds with a song no one hears.
(c) Elaine Ambrose
