Colours

by Ann Follows

Blue
Is the sea in the Gulf of Thailand 
but its salt water stings skin 
like nettle in spring.
Micro-planktons attack 
and my hoped-for soothing swim 
is instantly spoiled.

Green 
Is my convent school uniform 
and lawns and leaves in the summer. 
Many shades erupt from 
bare brown branches. 
Is the colour of life, 
of peace, or redemption when flying flags 
or wearing badges.

Red 
Is an angry storm, 
is hurt and pain 
and scars that rise firm and hard. 
Is fire and flame and eyes that betray feelings. 
It’s my favourite colour – 
rarely worn.

Amber 
Is honey from red pollen, 
is hardened resin 
traps insects within. 
Is half-way between danger 
and safe. Is caution.

Rainbows 
Are promise and hope without end. 
Are joy. Are seen for a moment 
when often the light of the whole sky 
is strange and transient.

Then it has gone. 
Hearts were filled, then expired.

Copyright © 2020 Ann Follows