Countless tress fade away—
They retreat like shadows
Fleeing the amber smear of day.
A chill wind northward blows,
A frozen breath of woes.

Evergreens mantled white
Seem to shiver with cold.
O how the snow glows pale tonight!
Fresh flurries falling bold
Yet how that scene seemed old!

Silence spreads her soft wings
Flying untouched, alone
While stars wink like lecherous kings—
Wanting their lover’s groan,
Knowing winter’s unknown.

No ribbons wrap no gifts
No angels sing in mirth
No incense nor myrrh no king lifts
No babe blesses the earth
Yet here is birthed Christ’s birth