Flaunting finery red and gold
with tinkling silver anklet steps
She emerges, braving winter cold
and stands tall in the desert sand.
Who in this land of chinkara
can hold a candle to her looks?
Grouse and quail
partridge and hare
are held in thrall
and watch in muted wonder
as an indulgent sun acquiesces
for her, mellows his summer blaze.
With azure visage blushing rose
the courteous pristine crystal sky
woos her till the fall of night.
Then the stars come out to play
and entertain the winter bride.
~ ~