The soundscape differs on a holiday-
Construction sites fall silent, and the thrum
Of traffic fades beneath the morning gray,
As though the clouds absorb both sound and sun.

But sizzling grills and children’s’ merry shrieks
Will herald hot dog lunches on the grass.
And Stars and Stripes Forever seems the peak
Of sweet nostalgia, ’til the warning blast;

O fiery buds exploding into bloom
And strewing golden grains across the sky
How I adore your sulfurous perfume
As cynical displeasure you defy.

Though I anticipated ringing ears,
I’m pleasantly surprised by joyful tears.