To a Blue Flower

John Shaw Neilson (1872–1942)

I WOULD be dismal with all the fine pearls of the crown of a king;But I can talk plainly to you, you little blue flower of the Spring!

Here in the heart of September the world that I walk in is fullOf the hot happy sound of the shearing, the rude heavy scent of the wool.

Soon would I tire of all riches or honours or power that they fling;But you are my own, of my own folk, you little blue flower of the Spring!

I was around by the cherries to-day; all the cherries are pale:The world is a woman in velvet: the air is the colour of ale.

I would be dismal with all the fine pearls of the crown of a king;But I can give love-talk to you, you little blue flower of the Spring!