The Darkness Grows

It is that time of year
When the sun retreats—
Darkness grows, envelops,
Spreads its winter claws
And without humility,
Coldly strikes the heart,
Exposes it to the open air,
Steps back, and patiently
Waits for the tissue to freeze
Solid in the fading light.

It is a time of no growth,
Or so it seems.
Whatever life survives
Withdraws further into darkness,
Buries into the soil,
Closes eyes in a hidden cave,
Almost stops breathing
And waits for spring.