Tulips

A poem by Kate Swindlehurst

We arrived, barely out of bud

Folded inward, giving nothing away

Beyond the faint blush on our lips

You thought you had the measure of us –

Pale, unassuming, delicate

You would look after us

We would be no trouble

You watch as we open

Marvel at our intricate markings

And peer inside us, scrutinising

The golden secrets at our heart

Don’t be fooled!

Notice our sturdy stems

The strength in our numbers –

No pushover, see how we stretch tall

Robust, unbending

Reaching for the light

Read by Kate, soundscape by the company

Tulips, a study in felt tip by Julie Digby

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