Butler Pennsylvania 23


       
Apple Tree


One day while passing hurriedly
on Cliff Street where the orchard was
I caught sight of an apple tree
in red streaks, running,
when suddenly it stopped,
the right foot stretched out
for the earth in front
the other high behind,
with one arm thrust forward
the other cocked chest high—
swiftness caught in flight
at the moment of victory
in dappled red and green
dashing across the finish line,
while runners pursuing him
stood there awed, gaping,
motionless like trees.