misplaced summer Day in May for Ray (edit)

[ellajam]

early showers
tempt earthworms
lilacs burst

I like tempt and burst for evocative language. It almost seems like the lilacs are busting from all the rain, yet we know that you're referring to their blooming. I think it's well done.

Thanks for taking the time to comment, Lizzie. I had my doubts about tempt as being too abstract but was encouraged by you mentioning it. That is, until achebe followed on your heels with his contempt for tempt. Thinking...

"Tempt" is weak. The word itself is ugly. I have a slight stammer and find it too lippy.
Also, L2 feels overly long
How about:

Early showers:
earthworms, lilacs
burst.

Yes tempt is weak, I couldn't put my finger on a better word at the time. I don't loathe tempt, though I do loathe loathe. I was reading or writing, I don't remember, a line recently and thought "My dad would never be able to say those two words together." While a combination of words can't please everyone I absolutely hear you. Sonically, Lure is miles better:

early showers
lure earthworms
lilacs burst

But that doesn't solve the issue of both lure and tempt being not quite concret enough. While your version is nice I try not to rely on punctuate for these but let the words and breaks get the reader to stop and go.

i think I'll start with that edit, thank you both for making me think about this one again. My whole house smells like lilac from the one bush outside the door.

maybe, though it would kill it for Lizzie,

early showers
earthworms
lilacs