Beguiled

I was beguiled by this hidden garden -

There was a holly tree with bright leaves -

Berries in red clusters on slim branches -

Pale green apples in a shapely tree -

A rose still in bloom with luscious silky petals -

Gargoyles were hanging from the church tower -

Grasping the lichened stones -

Their mouths gaping above an olive tree -

Rain would soon fall -

Beyond the narrow gate were old houses filled with silence -

A giant lay on the hill under rearing clouds - 

Cerne Abbas

September 27 2026