The purple Irises glistened

in the morning stillness

with three tongues that lick

as if to catch a dew drop

upon each tip

Golden bearded and strong

these living gems

calling for those lucky enough

to scent and see them.

Rhizomes barely catch the earth,

with roots that serve as a place of rebirth

Dividing as they go

year after year, they double in show

Oh, this beauty with for my eyes to see

I cannot keep them for only me

with friends true I shall share.

and next year bring to them

this joy I find in

a purple world with hues of gold and fragile love.

© Calac

Chris Lane

Painting by Stephanie M. Hopkins