I am cutting back the lavender

I am cutting back the lavender

Taking back this year’s growth

Lopping amythst bullet clusters

That have dried to grey pustules

Burst by seeds long gone.

I am cutting back the lavender

Taking back this year’s growth

Grasping the woody stems

Seeking the supple green flesh

Has hardened to woody, winter resistance.

I am cutting back the lavender

Taking back this year’s growth

Plunging my hands into the silver bush

Freeing a dark, heavy, AROMA

With each switch of my blade.

This year’s growth hangs

A decaying aestival scent

Lingering memories

that hold against winter’s grey, hibernal touch.

I am cutting back the lavender

Taking back this year’s growth.