Winter is a metaphor for isolation
For barricades and embankments
For locking doors and closing windows
For stocking in for ourselves

Winter is a storehouse
Not of knowledge but
Of applesauce and onions
Of dried feelings and dead emotions

Winter is a fur-lined fireplace
A hearth to share and call home
Winter is forced co-existence
Some are certain they'd rather be alone

Winter demands enforcement
Of neighbors' love and travel
Of journeys long into the night
To be sure the least or lost are well

Winter doesn't last forever
Although it seems it might
The snow melt will expose the dead
But the rest of us will be fine

1/7/26