Appalachian wind

the wind bites at my neck

and I dare it to consume me.

carve into my nape

and chew me thoroughly.

 

its fingertips trace my sleeve

and tangle in my hair.

savor my spine 

and spit me into autumn air.

 

the taste of tenderness

stains and stings its open tongue.

Wind, love me now

and come undone.

 

it unties and unwinds

my humid summer hope

burn my careful abandon

and teach me to cope.