They’re
too well known to name.
You’d think their pink might be a sign of shame
At their overblown fame.
For these have been emblems
Of passion and beauty and such, even
Transported to heaven
To be God’s resemblance.
They
don’t mind. They don’t blush.
They crowd to work at the crown of the bush,
Twisting open the plush
Chambers to be adored
By flies and bees – such bliss as bugs deserve,
Of touch, tint, scent and curve.
Each is more or less flawed
And
briefer than this word
In which they’re gathered, countless summer hoard,
Sprung and scattered abroad.
They come and the tongue goes
Empty, looking what to liken them to.
And this is yet more true
Of you, lovelier than those.
John Gibbens