Student Publishing Program ::

Jenny Liu

Neighbor

Across the street the willow tree stands still
beside the old brick house where he has lived.
At 3 o'clock he walks despite the chill
hobbling on his cane, returning pensive.
His gaze, fixed, stone cold drifts ahead in space
its hidden concern beneath tells no more.
That stern look, it stays plastered on his face
then drops, a weary sigh, he shuts the door.
The leaves have fallen, blanketing the grass.
The tree so bare, a few cling for their last.
Sitting affront, he waits the day to pass,
but knows eventually life will come fast.
His repeated routine will tell you when.
The next day he does not come out again.

[TABLE OF CONTENTS, LHS CLASS OF 2012 EDITION]