It is an Italian elm,
branches sweeping
from where it centers
on one lawn to umbrella
it's neighbors, burgeoning
with lemon colored,
winter dead leaves.
On either side, it is obvious,
fastidious owners maintain
immaculate lawns, trimmed,
raked clear of falling debris,
though grass is winter weak:
the pale bluish blades mar
handiwork of proud owners.
Between these beautifully kept
but sad yards lies majesty:
unmowed, unraked, elm leaves
blanket the yard
from driveway to driveway;
not a spot of winter grass shows,
just a perfect bed of yellow neglect.
