The Croton Plant

I picked a seed on my way side From a worthy yard of a lord And put it safe in my lonely heart. I watered it with love and passion. I warmed it with care and concern. A hard coated, it took long to burst. Under the shade, it struggled to emerge. By rain of lust and draught of guilt Was the plant beset but not upset. It grew to a bush with the entire blush. Came in the spring; Went out the Spring. No bloom. No blossom. No flower. Yet leaves are rosy like petals. A croton as it is, I shall harbour it. For its colourful leaves at least. 1.10.2000, Madras