Reading Red

I am stripes on our flag; on a face I show shame. I'm a river and sea and a cherry and flame. I'm a cardinal, gore, and a symbol for war, And a Bolshevik, bulls-eye, and brothel decor. I'm a bureaucrat's tape and a light where you wait And a bullfighter's cape and Republican state. I am Canada's leaf and Japan's rising sun. I'm a steak ordered rare, and a lobster when done. I'm two suits that are played, and a failing firm's ink, And a cross bringing aid, and related to pink. I'm the Sox loved in Boston and Prynne's scarlet A And I decorate Christmas and Valentine's Day. I'm a carpet rolled out or mean danger ahead. I am Mars and a ruby and rose--I am red.