13 June 2012
If I were a daisy Or a buttercup so gay, Children'd hold me under their chin And laugh the day away. They'd pick me for their posies, Pluck my petals in their games, Give me to their mothers Adored, alive, acclaimed.
If I were a rose I could give myself to you, A classic symbol of love, Love so fair and true. Each 14th of February Blood red or soft pink hues, I'd be given to the one I love So love I would not lose.
If I were cherry blossom I'd float off in the breeze, Confetti for the newly weds As they say their vows in spring. For spring is the ringtime When birds do sing-a-ling And my velvet, graceful kisses Would call out all these things.
If I were a poppy I'd serve my country well, I'd solemnly remind them Of all the men who fell. Each November I would shine Like a ruby, crimson gem, Chosen from Flanders To serve our brave countrymen.
Alas, I am a thistle None of the above, Not worthy of a posy, Of newly weds, of love. I'm only good for hedgerows, To scare you all away With sharp teeth, sharp nails, just sharpness So that no-one wants to play. No-one wants to pick me, No-one calls my name, No-one stops to admire Or include me in their games, I just grow tall and prickly, Harsh and rough and mean. If only I could be a daffodil, Well, a bloom can dream.
Blooms • Opuss № I