Sloughs

inhabit an
Alberta domain of
wilderness. And scattered in
random bunches
a band of ducks---slaves to respite
this September day

heads tucked into snowfall’s
flavour---their
slicked feathers acting as
a funnel directing cups
of moisture.

Anxious for sun’s warm touch
feathers will once again
take flight---plans
in the making.

© Richard L. Provencher