Midnight

Couldn't sleep, took an evening walk
To set my thoughts aright
My mind full of the Doomsday Clock
Two minutes to midnight.

But then I thought I was dreaming
I couldn't believe my sight
Standing on the pavement there
Shown up in the pale moonlight.

Was it an elf? Was it a pixie?
Or yes, perhaps, a sprite?
A shadow crept across my brain
Two minutes to midnight.

At sight of me, the creature jumped
Intent on taking flight
Was it they, or was it me
Who'd had the greatest fright?

I started an apology
Trying to sound contrite
Did I hear the sound of bells?
Two minutes to midnight.

But it was her voice so hushed
Accusing from her height
Whispered words that struck the heart
Making my throat tight.

"You're killing us and Mother Earth
Can you not see her plight?"
Swallowing nervously I thought
Two minutes to midnight.

What could I say to this poor creature?
So willowy and slight
The words that tried to form themselves
Shallow; Weak; Trite.

"You all shall die!" She exclaimed
Her eyes were burning bright
Drawing her finger across her throat
Two minutes to midnight.