Flora Mixta

In Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania.

“Orchid,” by Jude Allen

Petals, curved and perfect,
Translucent,
Precocious;
Blooming bold and beautiful
Against a dark world.
Pulsating pink,
Your arteries are
Feeding every part.
Moving inward,
In the same cerise blush,
Lips curl out,
Hanging,
Encircling,
A gap
Invites the insect.