Not Listening

NOT LISTENING Choral gladioli in formal circles, Standing awkward beneath the pines’ Shade - their pinks and purples Gasping in the gloom for sunshine. Immersed in a happy crowd mustered Around them - dandelions in masses Like children in unruly jostling clusters, A natural attraction - yellow dresses Dancing to the music of the breeze, Laughing and touching heads, Fast growing, well rooted - at ease: They want to be here, they‘re glad. Gladioli are ordered there in rings Dutifully participatory, Rendering songs an outsider sings In unheeding dandelion territory. ...................................................................................... Written 27 July 2014 (I wrote this when watching the formal beds of flowers in a somewhat overgrown garden in the city.)