The Emblem

By ZOË SIMPSON

 

(John Walker/Fresno Bee/MCT)

Each petal smolders with infamous complexion—

a passive bloom to injure witless gall

Rancor lies safe

beneath the velvet film,

in veins across its languid form

(frailty making sweet the nectar venom)

Blessed be this emblem of her dominance,

She whose quiet eyes

and mild voice

give praise to veiled dominion.