On the Grass of the Greensward

Poison ivy always grows left then right

In leaves of three, never side by side. 

It knows its place under the climax of old hickories

With wild plants, vines, rare flowers, and plenty. 

It knows its place climbing southern red oaks

Of this gratefully preserved old forest arboretum;  

With the black cherry, Shumard, and pawpaw.  

It knows its place... off the grass of the Greensward! 

The vine still longingly stretches towards memory grove

And the statue made of copper pennies. 

Invasive as it is, nature knows when to turn her back. 

Inhaling deep with the lungs of this scarred city, 

Take a breath with the out of place wild animals, 

Save us from the choking fumes of automobiles

Whistling through the Shell and musical mushrooms. 

Overton turnover, clean this kitchen cabinet. People, 

Know your place on the grass of the Greensward!