A Spenserian Stanza for the Black Forest

William Ruleman

(written near Hinterzarten, Germany, Autumn 2016)

I love these looming firs and pines, these ferns,
These mountain meadows filled with emerald moss,
And in this chill and pure air, one soon learns
A means of mitigating earthly loss,
For silver sunshafts lend a soothing gloss
To wounds the wicked world and time have dealt.
Yes, here where wind-swept branches sway and toss
Is where my soul in silent prayer has knelt
And where I feel more peace than I have ever felt.