The evidence shows
that the black bear living in the swamp
eats apples.
Quickly, the green scat
leads through torn blackberry vines.
As we follow, an elderly apple tree
tries to escapes from the orchard
that existed on this farm
at least a hundred years ago.
It leans gracefully like a Olympic runner
and ducks under towering maples.
Dark cherry trees also watch this sudden bolt for freedom.
Its bark feels like soft sponge,
its small fruit flavored with cinnamon
and tart tannin dreams hardened with youth.