Pulsing Seasons

Claire Kroening

The air is too warm for October;

leaves prematurely singe,

a sky once clear

now muddled in its own reflection:

a dull tie-dye laced

in weathered monotone

and sundried flames.

The river crawls by

slower,

thicker,

carrying the weight

of forgotten rain.

We no longer speak of seasons—

only waiting.

Published in Issue No. 2, Vox Novum, November 1st, 2024.

Claire Kroening (they/them) is a writer based in the upper midwest, with their works appearing in literary magazines and publications worldwide; where their recent works can be found on their Instagram @clairerosek. When not fostering their latest creative endeavors, they appreciate visiting art museums, and studying foreign languages.