Frayed after many rains
the knotted rope struggles to hold its own
like a wilted fern before the first frost
subdued but predictable
veined designs trace the cloned leaves
drawing the complicated rails of
Manhattan’s underground
Hugging closely woven for warmth
dried leaves untwine. Released.
Driven by a light breeze
like tendrils sun kissed on a May vine
Curled up at setting of the sun
Mortared avocado green
The fern resilient but serene