POEM 210 By ... Steve Lucky

               ORANGES
          By ... Steve Lucky

During the time when the oranges grow,
Orchard farmers have to know
Whether or not it is going to freeze.
Thousands of dollars depend on a few degrees.
Month after month they endure the cold
Hoping the orange blosoms will one day be sold.
To a person or company wanting to consume
The oranges just starting to bloom.
Silver coins the help receives for their work
Inspecting the oranges for any quirk
Possibly caused by frost.
If it destroys the crop, money is lost.
Turning purple from cold or from a bruise
It just part of the daily dues
The farmer and the hired help have to pay
If they want things to go their way.
Something as simple as a glass of juice
Has a splendid, practical use.

Copyright 2001, Steve Lucky