Kamikaze Leaves [free verse]

I was strolling down the autumn lane
of a quiet suburban park
in the autumn of my life when
I saw the most curious of displays.

Colors of earth and fire where awhorl
all around the chilly atmosphere.
Gold, orange and muddy brown conspired
to envelop the most innocent of passers-by.

I have never, I say, I have never
seen such wanton disregard for life
as those kamikaze leaves of autumn time.

Old and withered stems pluck'd themselves,
wrenching tired old bones and sagging flesh,
for a final hurley-gurley joyride
along the autumn breeze.

Impotent.

One wishes we could all go out
in such an energetic and beautiful fashion.