Summer’s too brief glory, Is sadly fading fast, As the evening sun Dips over the horizon. How quickly it has passed Leaving empty bleakness – Like a bank calling in A cushioning loan too soon. Late summer visitors are queuing At the airport baggage check-in Making their way back home, Wherever home happens to be; And for many days past The swallows have been gathering On telephone wires awaiting The right moment for take off On their trans-oceanic Flights to the sun – all Leaving us behind, to absorb Another too longlasting Cold and rain – dripping winter.