Why do these exquisite snapdragons
arranged so neatly
in a hollow vase
for my viewing pleasure
make me feel so sad?
Could it be because their life
has been selfishly plucked
from their natural habitat
and put on display
for everyone to admire
their temporary beauty
wither and die?
or
because it reminds me of
my transient status which
I have not been able to comfortably accept yet
and that I too,
may have been plucked
and placed in a vase casket?
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Hi Travis , my guess is probably the latter…You could be joyous that the “hollow vase” (I like that btw) is fulfilling its purpose so well and celebrate the transitory. Personally I love a big vase of flowers, so cheering and a reminder of the beauty around us. If it helps, there are many plants that actually do better and reflower rather than die when you pick them :-)
Of course I realise that much of which you speak to in this poem is metaphorical, and I was given pause to consider our transient existence.
Glenn, thank you for your insight! I like that perspective!
Oh Travis, nice one! I like the feel of this poem, and its point is very true for me.
Flowers, by the way, love to be admired and love. They respond to it.
Don, Thank you! I’m glad this poem touched you. I’m sure they do love to be loved. I just hate to see them picked, I feel like they just take a sharp turn towards death by our hands.
Beautiful simplicity, and yet so truly profound. Thanks Travis!
right now,i’m feeling like a flower in that vase…lost and withering
Mike, Thank you!
Anu, I’m glad you could relate to my poem!
The More Things Change…
Does not the tree shed withered leaves
Yet grace the keepers lawn
Does not the flower release new seeds
Then obligingly move on
Does not the love, if love at all
Gain strength from what has passed
Though seasons change, the tree remains
Only leaves refuse to last.
That’s beautiful Shirley! Thanks for sharing this complimenting poem.
I feel the same way when I see the animals at the zoo . . .