Sonnet 126, Oh Give Tinctures

Oh give tinctures of the orchid beautiful, So richly by day - and darkly by night! I do not want colours that fade, or are dull, And only need those that are fair and are bright. Like the pleasures and longings - dilating round, Moments of the blossoms in memory stand still; All on earth that in spring and in summer's found, Lovable thoughts, that away the dull may kill. Reserved for my eyes - and God who's above, Perfect in shape and the meteor of the heart; Flowery blossoms for each occasion and love, Fragrance that comes through the air - to impart. Variants I love, if knowledge I gain, Thoughts are like colours - not always too plain.