The Soul of the Sunflower

THE warm sun kissed the earth To consecrate thy birth, And from his close embrace Thy radiant face Sprang into sight, A blossoming delight.

Through the long summer days Thy lover’s burning rays Shone hot upon thy heart. Thy life was part Of his desire, Thou passion-flower of fire!

And, turning toward his love, Lifting thy head above The earth that nurtured thee, Thy majesty And stately mien Proclaims thee sun-crowned queen.

On earth, thy gorgeous bloom Bears record of thy tomb, And to transcendent light Thy soul takes flight Till thou art one, O sunflower, with the sun!