Autumn Lilacs
by Paulette Demers Turco

Now that the maple trees are bare of leaves,
on this cool November day, we’ve met
for brunch to share some vivid memories

like how we used to buy each other lilacs
while visiting the Arnold Arboretum,
a Boston gem of Olmsted’s Emerald Necklace.

We’ve celebrated Mother’s Day each May–
our married daughters, raising their young sons
with their loving husbands, miles away.

Near the Jamaica Way, along the Charles,
today we trade a gift of greenery–
for you, a rooted sample I’d first seen in Arles,

a President Grevy Blue French Lilac, known
for massive double blooms. We’re not alone.



 

Return to: