How to Translate the Wind

A slight shiver of the trees 
is considered by windologists

as a mourning, not to be confused 
with a vibrant tousle of a leaf, 

which is, not surprisingly, its opposite: 
joy. A bird, flying just below gale-force

winds is persistence. Although, any bird
flying above such winds is called, well,

I’m not sure there’s a name for that
quite yet, as we have yet to see such a sight —

but no doubt it does exist. A wicker chair, 
flipped upside down and siding across

the porch is an easy and familiar 
tone: wrath. Winds don’t prefer to be 

angry, but who does? A sudden gust 
gone as quickly as it came is a grief.

A cool breeze is a jealousy, while a warm
breeze is just as you might expect —

and is called longing.

— ANDREA LAWLER

Andrea Lawler is a poet, essayist, and short story writer. She holds a degree in English Language & Literature. She is the founder of two non-profits: Keeping Emmons County Clean & Frankie’s Feline Sanctuary. She currently lives in North Dakota with her three cats.