Into Leaf (Poetry)

Every time I throw a glance
another leaf unfurls —
each birth proclaimed
by its own new pale green flag —
Winter’s tree becoming wreathed around
grown extravagant with bunting
as it welcomes April sun
and casual visitors who come
to see it spring again to life —
a host of small sweet tender tongues
that lick the rain-washed air —
taste their first warmth
and dither aimless ’til the breeze
chivvies them to dance.