Neil Harding
© 1999

Pearl Through Mist

Translucent pearl through mist the courtyard wall
is curtained russet yellow, ruffled vines
are whispering their summer love to fall.
A rainbow wind with shimmering veils entwines
the fountain's dance, flirts fluting soft around
gold bamboo blinds, and chimes as bold as brass
beneath the brown dark balcony. Unbound,
an awning yawns and stretches shade to pass
where cedar smoke curls marinaded scent
of lamb, tomato, sage and thyme. Wild grasses,
ice bucket, crusty loaves, an ornament
of silver filigree, a cake, tall glasses.

As evening flames hibiscus with the sun,
two silhouettes touch lips, merge into one.