Precious

On the edge of Pawpaw's river property

stood a gnarled persimmon tree

we thought would wither and die

but green then gold flowers came.

The gnarled persimmon tree stood,

brought forth shiny-skinned fruit

from green then gold flowers they came

to gather after first sign of frost.

The shiny-skinned fruit came forth

enough for a wicker basketful

gathered after first frost,

sweetening the once-puckery fruit.

Enough for a wicker basketful,

enough to scoop out for pudding,

sweet now, this once-puckery fruit

gathered on Pawpaw's land.

The flesh scooped out for pudding

also good out of hand

gathered on Pawpaw's land

now cleared where the river ran.

               -Donna Isaac

                donnaisaacpoet.com