Winter has arrived.
My hands and feet are
sore and numb from the
blistering winds.

No angels in sight;
the snow is too thick, and the
cold too brutal for
outdoor fun.

I put on several coats to keep
warm;
the gales have put out the
fire. I need

more layers to keep
warm-
i've neither coal nor
firewood left.

I see someone from a distance-
His red velvet coat is a stark
contrast to
the unblemished snow. He

offers firewood in exchange for
one coat.
I wonder if
such a trade is worth my while:

What if I discover the
inferiority of the firewood after
stripping a
layer off myself

What if he withdraws his
offer upon receiving
my coat?
(for there is never a moment of singular fair and precise exchange).

I forget this.
What happens when the firewood burns out as
always
they do?

My coat is for life.
Layers work best.

The exchange will not do.

Though so many times an unfair bargain may prove tempting:
Fire does not bring just
warmth but light
At night.

Will the moon not suffice?
Will the stars not shine?
More than enough,
Though this season be rough.