For the Trees

The forest, damp and gloomy, welcomes summer,
green canopy a shield against the heat.
A woodpecker, the grove's incessant drummer,
accompanies a youngling's "mommy" bleat.

And down below, all manner creepy crawly
is rushing to complete the season's work.
A praying mantis preys upon the holy.
Behind its compound eyes, an evil smirk.

An aging deer -- will he retain his harem --
hoofs stepping softly on the rotting earth.
Perhaps this winter will be kind and spare him.
His does in tow, some fresh from giving birth.

The leaves are rustling with the slightest breeze.
And now you've seen the forest for the trees.