Tulips colours

The orange I’ve just picked from the tree

They are the colours that feed our eyes—

familiar colours, or so we think,

until we look closely, and closer still.

They are shades of red and purple, or pink perhaps—

yellow, orange, or white.

They are the colours, the language of spring.

They are the deep red hues of lust or love;

they are the orange tones of a friendship or two.

And when yellow steps in with its cheerful score,

amongst the elegant purples, the colour of wealth,

a celebration is called for with a bouquet of pink,

delivered with well wishes and joy.

And sadly, when life finds its end,

white speaks softly of condolences and regret.

The other colours of tulips—

the colours of life—

they are the palette of spring,

in front of our eyes.

Written for Hrts NGS in April 2024