the feast of August

in a cold spring
resting home of spirits
some ancient, some wise
we dipped our toes
and appendages
for refreshment and relief
a battle glorious
profound and mental
took place upon checkered floor
surprise victory
persevering strategy
mopping the opponent’s pieces
right down to their king
no pawn to save
no quarter given
Pride in the offspring
she raised her salute high
and up high, in other domains
realms, cosmi others observed
ritualized celebrations
marked in sand on the compass
before the harvest season begins