Hear now the battle marchers’ roar
Sending our children off to war
If not for them who will it be
That gives their life to keep us free ?
THE CROCUS ( 1975 ) 2013/02/13
See here this insipid sprout prodding through the ground,
A waspish lout daring venture an exit found
From whence it slept secure and safe this winter long
Impatient now to seek the sky and join spring’s song.
This tender waif, intruding bold midst trees still shorn,
Rushing manner that its blossom earth’s green adorn
Oh plowman as you toil, do take especial care
Harm not that fragile wisp that births a flower fair,
Bustling winds their pruning labor still to finish
Hurried rains preparing sod, its growth diminish.
This poor forgotten badge of spring precedes the rest
Bids the heart sing, believe again the earth is blessed,
Slighted and unscented wretch gaining little fame,
Brave crocus how you dare and put the world to shame.
Claire V. Bogdanos 