Because the trees are more than green; br Because the almond and the cherry wait br Like bridesmaids at the churchyard gate; br Because black coral branches still are seen br br Half hidden by new leaves in field and lane; br Because the towering clouds that crowd br Above the low horizon stand so proud, br Plump and promising to bring more rain br br And sun on paths is shedding fitful shade br And warms the mist that lies so damp and chill br Within the valley and across the hill; br Because the bluebells flower in every glade; br br This is not summer, but we have to say, br Take heart, for winter's over, it is May.