Morning Moose

Flaming sky
reflects on a Maine lake.
Morning mist rises
like steam from smooth water.
Humpbacked hills
surround a loon’s call.

Now a ripple
gives rise
to another humped shape
followed by dripping, droop-eared
moose head.

A bullfrog’s deep
moaning wheeze
a counterpoint
to constant birdsong.

Gangly moose calf
near by,
mouth dripping
with water plants.

His mother
leads him through cattails
into the arms
of the waiting forest.

© 2008  Michael Yanega
4 December 2008