Inspired by Lynne Henderson’s watercolour Paeonia Officinalis
Rustic delight and Japanese grace
Combine in a blustery symphony of
Colours that abound, from
Snowy white and subtle Rose to
Magenta and purple on top.
*
Found in crystal vessels or lodging in gardens.
Ponderous and slow
But full of mystique and
Apt meditation
*
Duluth, Mme de Verneville, and
Sarah Bernard
Add fragrance to
Elegance
As feathery leaves waft in
The breeze.
***
©HMH 2021
One of your more evocative poems! It makes me feel and sense Japan, where I lived long ago for several years, but also Germany. I don’t even remember if that’s a common flower in Germany, but somehow I remember the scent. It’s kind of “old-country-ish” if that makes sense. Like, it’s a very old-fashioned flower! Lovely poems, your flowers are!
I believe that Peonies are loved and planted everywhere in Europe. My parents had some in Denmark and, although I haven’t seen them in German gardens, I’m sure they flourish there as well. By the way, you’re absolutely right about the ‘old-country-ish’ observation. Thank you for your observations and kind words, Debi!
Hi Hanne,
Have you ever painted roses? I love the older varieties, rather than the “created” ones, especially wild roses.
Indeed I have, Debi. I believe there is a Rose painting somewhere on this blog. That is a traditional ‘created’ rose though. I do love wild roses too and have made many photos of them.
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