Beware the Puddles

By Amanda Bratton

Oblong puddles of rainwater
have taken up residence in the potholes
and tread marks along the gravel road.
They glint and glisten from a distance,
and their slim dark bodies resemble
that of a cotton-mouth snake
when merely glanced at.

The snakes curl up on the gravel
during the evening hours of hot
summer days to soak in the fading warmth
that remains in the little rocks.

Whether puddle or snake,
the form in the road often results
in a quick side-step to evade
the vicious bite of anxiety
before the shimmering shadow registers.