“The Apple Tree”© 2013 by Michael L. Utley The apple treeBehind the houseHas long agoStopped bearing fruit It stands aloneIn sickness boldHalf its branchesDead or dying Leaves the hueOf summers pastDefy the sunThe pouring rain Bound there inWhite-knuckled gripOn mournful twigsOn listless boughs As autumn fadesThe leaves succumbEach one aSmall gold suicide Each gilded dropA … Continue reading “The Apple Tree”