Witnesses

The orchard basks in
the mellow light of autumn,
leaves drift along the hedge,
a late mouse scurries for its burrow.
Three pheasants, a cock
and two hens stroll with
arrogant steps through
frosted grass and dry leaves.
Their bronze and purple splendor
witnesses as wilderness
beyond the tame acre
of my study. They burn in the sun
and wake a vision of barbaric wonder
against the windows of my
safe retreat.