The ivy growing around my
uncle's house
is a dark forest green
It is the same color as the awnings
on the town's two funeral homes
the same shade as the shutters
of the courthouse, downtown.
This sameness is common
down here.
Where we embraces tradition and
symmetry
The same dark green paint
the same songs on Sunday morning
the same menu at the sea food buffet on Friday nights
The ivy growing around my uncle's house
will turn dark brown by the end of December
only to make a gradual rebirth in spring.
Mid-April, when schoolkids ride their bikes 'till dark,
city workers will get up early
painting all of the park's benches
dark forest green