Le Mistral

Le Mistral

soft at first
brushing
high leaves
teasing
gentle
refreshing
building
but slowly
to a strength
that shakes trees
destroys parasols
abducts hats
rattles
windows and doors
clears the terrasse
of all
but the most solid
items of furniture
and
for three days
dryly
unceasingly
inflicts pain
sand and grit
in eyes
conversation muted
constant noise
in ears
gradually
fraying nerves
until
of a sudden
air is still
sky is clear blue
tranquillity
and good humour
return
to Paradise
* * *
Le Mistral
rests
patiently
ponders
his return