April this Year (After Millay)

April this Year (After Millay)

April this year, is otherwise  

Than Aprils from long ago;

Full of tears, and full of sighs,  

Unlike days with smiles aglow.

Dogwoods that pleased us so

Are a sight for other eyes.

Memories invade me throughout the day,  

My grief follows me through the doors;

In orchards near and far away  

Bluebirds look for you and mourn;  

I earnestly try to do my chores,

But daffodils stop me as they sway.

Life surrounds me full and deep,  

Noisy and quietly, the short days run.

April, with rain and dark clouds seep,  

While clocks tick steadily as they stun. 

Pensively,—now you are gone,

You that in my heart I keep.

CPW