WHAT MAY COME TO YOU IN SLEEP

Far off in the fields,
on the hummocks of grass
yellowed with the last
sheets of sunlight, they appear,
brown coats glowing.
Like fretful thoughts
before an uneasy sleep,
the deer stamp,
show challenge in their chests.
Nearby, the eye of the pond
closes and blunted wedges
of heads turn in the darkness
and watch. The eyelid flickers
and waves wet the shore.
Heedless of their course
two deer bolt, become
two wild thoughts, dispelled
only by small cries.
A buck leaps from the field,
stands riveted in the path
and regards your fear.
Restless and pursued,
you awake.