Flake

Flurries feather down, illuminated only
When they fall past the light
Of the fluorescent streetlamp,
Glistening on the street below.
 
Melting as they kiss pavement,
Flakes create a gray sheen
Over the earth, imprinted with
The memories of your footfalls.
 
Does the snow exist above the streetlight,
Where none can behold it?
Or does it come into being when seen,
Existing only when tangible?
 
The solipsistic nature of snow
In darkness, known only when trapped
In the block of knowledge
Between fluorescent sun and earth
 
It lives when lighted upon,
Shines in the mind for mere moments,
And dies touching the temporary slush
Of previously pondered snowflakes.