Scent of Rain
by Steve Gerson
Photo by Bryan Hodges
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Photo by Bryan Hodges
agave prongs pleading
mesquite branches wrenched
their gnarled pod-like fingers
yearning wither blistered
red ants derisive of succulents dried
into hollowed bones wind whistling
as flute moans through the arroyo
but in the Chihuahuan distance
between Chisos and shimmering heat against
skyless clouds under shadowless noons a gray
cumulus rises builds piles like mountain peaks
the flattening base sending shafts of slanted
hope diaphanous sheets backlit and a breeze
suffused with sand promises a scent of rain
Dr. Steven M. Gerson, proud native Texas and English Professor Emeritus, was named 2003-2004 Kansas Professor of the Year, chosen by the Carnegie Foundation. He is the author of two poetry chapbooks: Once Planed Straight: Poetry of the Prairies; Viral: Love and Losses in the Time of Insanity (Spartan Press). Steve is most proud of his 50+ year marriage to Sharon, for whom all his love poems are written, and his wonderful family, who are the poetry of Steve’s life.
A native Texan, Bryan Hodges currently lives in Tyler with his wife Francie. They enjoy traveling and hiking throughout the American Southwest. Bryan has been exploring Big Bend with his camera for over 30 years. His work has appeared in several regional publications and calendars including Texas Highways Magazine, Blue Ridge Country, The Appalachian Trail Conference, Austin-American Statesman, Bat Conservation International, The National Park Service’s National Natural Landmarks, and The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
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