Ode to Ericaceae by Shelley Robinson

Ode to Ericaceae:

In Memory of James Crawford 

(1928 to 2019)

by

Shelley Robinson

Eternity has a way of visiting me

in May when I am in the gardens

painting Ericaceae

 

“Whence is the Flower”;

this dangerous Rhododendron?

Its transforming colour devours my canvas

captivating me;

Pale blues turn indigo

 

Infinity lies in each petal as

she whispers her secret

about my future 

in forests of wild magenta

 

How can I close my easel

when the world is a fiery crimson?

Or say goodbye when such beauty abounds

in Soft Scintillation?

 

I wrap my wet brushes;

wash the pallet clean of its colour

and walk home dreaming of my next encounter

This exquisite flower

This perfect moment just before twilight

when the song bird calls my name