Niagara

How slowly the majestic river flows,
deceptive in its undulating roll;
for suddenly it loses all control,
collapsing to the thunderous depths below.

Niagara Falls! No peaceful water hole
for errant birds that brave its raging throes,
then flee in fear the fiery arc that bows
above the daunting chasm’s steamy bowl.

All trembles as this flood of liquid jade
transforms into a mountainous froth cascade
in frantic, fuming, fierce and booming song . . .

And yet, my God, this torrent you’ve set free,
that shatters rock, upends the grand oak tree,
in mercy spares the straw it whisks along.