July

In July, sunlight bakes sidewalks

scorches asphalt.

In July, the roads are quiet

the locals retreat into the cool shade indoors

as the overexerted air conditioners

whir

and groan

and spit

streams of cold air.

Storms tumble inland every afternoon

the angry clouds snapping with

lightning

shake trees

and breast bones

with their thunder.

Heat scares the snowy birds

North, to return in Winter.

Stores and classrooms closed

drip humidity

sweltering

unused

waiting.

In July, the excitement

the promise of Summer

has dulled, tarnished

to lazy boredom

a slow

muddy

slide

into Fall.