Pagnol's Provence

Tree, fern and flowers hues array
Dominated by the dense black pine
And limestone hills around a sunny bay

Distant rocks in all directions lay -
Change colour from blue water to red wine
Depending on the hour of the day

Almond trees provide the easy prey
Of hunters hungry for the smallest sign
Of game before it runs or flies away

A hidden spring, the source of life today,
Tomorrow may be parched as a lifeline
Until the rain resumes its vital play

The smell of fennel rises in a spray
Where other herbal fragrances combine
Distilling in a kitchen cassoulet

Thousands of cicadas have their say
Accompanied by thrushes set to dine
While distant bells herd goats along their way
And pace the lazy rhythms of a summer's day