Winter

She comes but once a year and plagues the land
With her ruthless and unyielding fury
Even the strongest and bravest be dammed
Songs have been written of her treachery

She has bright white skin and icy blue veins
With the cold air she breathes and frozen gaze
Not a soul can escape her winter reigns
Long are the shadows, but short are the days

She is, however, rather beautiful 
With all the icy rage and the snowfall
The stillness in the air, so calm and pure
Just before the storm comes and the winds howl

She is but a paradox of nature
Unforgiving but truly wonderful

Photograph: Cook’s Meadow, Yosemite National Park, CA
© Alex Baranda
http://www.alexbarandaphotography.com/