To a Sunflower

I wonder how so beautiful a flow'r Is not endowed with much more power As the rose that turns a look so dour To something sweet, to smile and not glower. Your pretty face turned constant at the sun Is it a desire not to be outdone? Or an entreating look to a beloved one Whose love was sought once but he did shun? Your dark green garb made even greener than All the thick foliage that about you run Makes your golden head shine brighter to stun And dazzle the eyes like a thread finespun. Oh, continue on this drab hill to grow Give a touch of color to this tableau That we who live in our houses below May gaze on beauty in the afterglow. March 17, 2023