Late Afternoon

Sunlight in autumn when it comes Between lashings of rain Is sweet as a late ripening pear, Steady, strong as an old friendship. It settles down on the doorstep, Stretches out full length comfortably Like an old dog waiting For me to come out and keep it company. I stand in the doorway, eyes shut, Exposed like a tree trunk, an old stone wall Till work calls and I shut the door. The room inside is dark, but I move with ease, Having taken the sun indoors in me.