because peonies bloom here in April
i put them in these poems
and risk pathetic fallacy to say they are
patience in green-pink pods
or longing or delight's sudden appearance
after rain pink sun on a stem
unfurling fragrance
establishment
purveyor of ants to the kitchen table
cheerleaders in a blue glass pencil skirt
puffed mothers of song
saints of the desired
beloved
beloved
