Heartpine

By Robert Carter

Songs from the Longleaf Pine

From incendiary vapors Come tales of a caper Where fire the destroyer Becomes fire the creator

Clearing duff to plant the seed Seedling from competition now freed Bolts upwards to the celestial rays And the painted azure display

To escape the summer flames Source of life that also maims Reaching for the vaulted firmament Then basking in solar contentment

Long needles bathe in sultry air Dancing in the daily zephyr Breezes round the branches flow Soothing symphony to compose

Creating for all a flawless treasure Providing transcendent pleasure The inspiring songs from the longleaf Offer ear and soul calming relief

By wind and the divine Performed in the finest of the pines In harmony with the sparrow Creating chords warm and mellow

To comfort and inspire As flora and fauna do admire And we the beholders and observers Offer gratitude with enchanted fervor