Within the Grove

Erica Heldenbrand

Heard was the pitter-pat of the foxes,

their paws padding the mud after a harsh rain.

Cooing and cawing overhead, the crows

circle their prey and signal for a raid.

The taste of sweet and savory goodness,

filling drooling mouths of flies and maggots.

Sustenance for the hungry coyotes

who waited weeks, tearing through a jacket.

Their noses overcome with delight.

A fragrance so distinct, they all gather.

Decomposing stench brushed off by the worms,

Despite the circumstances, they still slither.

Touching frigid and cool skin, they cease care.

Pay no mind to this secluded place now.

The tough leather felt on a bear cub’s paw,

striking claws shred clean through a brow.

As you can see, there is nothing left here.

Bones left discarded, destined from the start.

Flowers have bloomed between the cracks before

the cops had discovered the pair and watched.

The cycle of life, both scary and kind.

A continuous loop that’s invincible.

Yet melancholy, incessant, unending.

Turning a blind eye towards death. Pitiful.

seasonal Love

Leaves fall, swimming through the crispy autumn air.

Memories of comfy sweaters, and of you.

Pumpkin spiced candles crackling their flames with care.

A sensational feeling, something that’s new.

Scarves wrapped tightly, we’re halfway through November.

My heart feels tender, warm, burning like embers.

Moving to December, the leaves will decay.

A Wind chill sounds so shrill, howling in its wake.

The snowstorm blew us apart, I hope love stays.

Icy film on the windows that yearn to break.

Slippery feelings, teetering on that line.

Let’s go back to November, when you were mine.

Erica Heldenbrand is a senior at EIU getting ready to graduate with her bachelor’s in English in May 2024. She discovered a love for poetry in her university course and has been inspired since! She has plans to teach ESL and pursue her masters in English within the next few years.