Autumn Time

This poem by Douglas Malloch expresses the joy and beauty of autumn. Some people may see autumn mainly as a sign that the cold winter months are coming. Others enjoy its brilliant colors, gentle warmth, crisp evenings, and peaceful days.

Not everyone has the opportunity to walk through forests filled with red, orange, and golden leaves. For those who do, autumn can bring back many happy memories. I remember the excitement of jumping into freshly raked piles of leaves and the laughter of the neighborhood children as we landed in the soft cushion beneath us.

There is something special about fall days when warmth remains in the air without the heavy humidity of summer. Autumn also brings children back to school and the return of familiar routines. Even as the years pass, the freshness of a cool evening and the comfort of sleeping beside an open window can bring those memories back.

Like every season, autumn is not a time to mourn what has passed. It is another opportunity to enjoy what God has created. Each season has its own beauty and should not be hurried through or wished away. Life is meant to be embraced and celebrated. We hope this poem reminds you to enjoy each day as a gift and make it one worth remembering.

The crimson gleam and glow of gold. Douglas Malloch

Updated August 5, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.

Autumn Time

The time is coming when the leaves
Shall put away their garb of green
And don the strange, fantastic weaves
That color all the autumn scene.

The crimson gleam and glow of gold,
The regal tints of ancient Tyre,
The form of summer shall enfold
And set the woodland ways afire.

And where the winter's snow shall lie.
And where the wind shall whistle shrill,
The vale shall burn with autumn's dye.
And autumn's splendor light the hill.

The summer laughs at winter's breath
That comes to lure her soul to rest.
And summer hurries forth to death
In all her gayest garments dressed.

When Death shall come to me, I pray
Ye garb me in my gayest gown -
And I will meet him blithe and gay.
And I will laugh away his frown.

Key Reflections In This Poem

  • Every Season Has Its Beauty

    Douglas Malloch reminds us that each season has something special to offer. Autumn may signal change, but it also fills the world with remarkable beauty that is worth slowing down to appreciate.

  • Embrace Change With Gratitude

    Life is always changing, just as the seasons do. Rather than fearing change, this poem encourages us to welcome each new chapter with thankful hearts and trust that every season has a purpose.

  • Find Joy In The Present

    It is easy to look ahead or long for the past, but true contentment comes from enjoying today. The beauty around us becomes more meaningful when we take time to notice and appreciate it.

  • Life Is Meant To Be Lived Fully

    The poem reminds us not to rush through life's seasons or wish them away. Every stage of life brings opportunities to grow, create memories, and enjoy the blessings God has given us.

  • Face Life With Courage

    In the closing verses, autumn becomes a picture of meeting life's final season with peace instead of fear. Douglas Malloch encourages us to live so fully that we can face tomorrow with hope and confidence.

  • Celebrate God's Creation

    The colorful beauty of autumn reminds us of the wonder found in God's creation. Taking time to enjoy the changing seasons can fill our hearts with gratitude and remind us of His care for the world around us.


Conclusion

Douglas Malloch's Autumn Time reminds us that every season has something to offer if we take the time to notice it. Autumn's brilliant colors, crisp air, and peaceful beauty encourage us to slow down and appreciate the world around us. The poem also points to a deeper truth that life is filled with changing seasons, and each one brings its own opportunities, lessons, and blessings. May these verses inspire you to enjoy the beauty that surrounds you today, give thanks for God's creation, and welcome each new season with gratitude and hope.