Krameria erecta
Littleleaf ratany
Dael Goodman
Iridescent magenta, maroon-
burgundy, reddish-lavender.
Hint of mint and lobelia.
How like an orchid, or is it sweet-pea?
Two fleshy petals below,
above fanned by three.
To the Little Rat
who took up with my cat, stick
your thorny branches
and furry, pink-spiny fruit
elsewhere, or else.
Dear President K
I want to grow up to be just like you.
You’re awfully good at hide and seek,
not to mention how you exploit others. And
those barbed burrs you put out are way awesome!
Mrs. Mulvey said we had to write a
letter to someone we admire if
we wanted to pass. Mother says you’re
sure to reply if I ask nicely, so please
Mr. President, act fast. Tag, you’re it!
Sincerely,
Littleleaf
My Dearest Ratany
How I miss you – despite our last prickly encounter. I admit I was taken aback by your association with Catclaw Acacia. Despite my distaste for close encounters, I find myself daydreaming of your lance-like leaves and intricate limbs. You proved yourself more dominant than I was led to believe, but Anne was right when she called you a rarity.
Yours truly,
Larrea
Luscious Larvae, Rx
Attn: Jane Doe
Worker Bee – scrape surface of
fleshy petals, mix
oil full-strength with nectar and
pollen from nearby flowers.
~~~~~
Dael Goodman has centered much of her life’s work around playing and working with words. She finds inspiration in nature, and in real world people and happenings.