Tulips
By Edgar A Guest
The tulips are in bloom again,
As every passer-by can see –
A lovely sight of read and white
And bronze and purple pageantry.
Braver warriors of hope are they
Who nod and sway beneath the sun
And seem to say, “Let come what may,
Our duty here once more we’ve done.”
“We shall not see the roses bloom
Nor long outlive the breath of spring
But brave of heart we play our part,
Each one of us a lovely thing.
“What if in two brief weeks we pale
And to the changing season bow,
And row by row to death we go?
We have our share of glory now.
“Gaze on us, weary passer-by,
Enjoy our beauty while you may,
And like us give, the while you live,
Your utmost best to every day.”