a clearing

[Mark A Becker]

I have only read it a couple times but I can't help but notice in the first half there are several places where you choose a good phrase and then don't seem to trust it so you adorn it.  For example:

"thickets of brambles"  - brambles is probably fine
" crows caw commands" - everyone knows crows caw, "crows command" is so much stronger without
"tall oak that stands sentinel" - would anyone think an oak standing sentinel was small?  Stronger without "tall"

Anyway, enjoying the read, will read it a few more times and return if anything calls out

Thanks

Good eyes milo- I appreciate that you point out the unnecessary areas of emphasis, and will address those.
Thanks,
Mark