Winter
They say Winter is oppressive
Her icy chills seeping into your bones
Sapping your strength with each step.
They say Her winds steals your breath
Angrily whipping you for daring to venture into Her realm
Her fangs sinking into your warm flesh
Refusing to release Her grip hours after you've escaped
Shudders run down your spine
Reminders of the beasts outside your door.
They say the barren trees stand in judgement
Shrieking as you pass
A warning to those courageous, or foolish, enough to brave the storms
Some bar your path, a testament to the dangers ahead
For if these mighty warriors can fall
What chance might you have
So insignificant and small.
Winter is a cold and cruel mistress
That is true
Perhaps for good reason.
Her winds buffet you along your path
Subtly nudging you off course
Her snowy galls obscuring your vision
So you might step into a world unknown.
Her presence lingers in your soul
The whispers of a cold embrace
The only sign of her guiding hand.