More colorful than my namesake.
Less odor. Shunned despite
deep butter-yellows
hinting at sunflower fields,
my central flower shielded
by furled green leaves.
As medicine, best to avoid
my bitter roots
without the required skills.
I’ve earned my place—
a bright beacon in waterlogged
earth. Make no mistake—
look, but stay away.
Sharon M. Carter
Sharon M. Carter recently retired from a career in healthcare. Originally from the U.K. she currently lives on the Olympic Peninsula. Fortunate recipient of a Hedgebrook residency and Jack Straw Writers program, her poems and art have been published online and in many journals including “Pontoon” and the “Raven Chronicles, Take a Stand: Art Against Hate” Anthology. Her poetry book “Quiver” was published this year.
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