Orchards in Blossom, by Vincent Van Gogh, 1889

Dear Vincent,
by Sharmagne Leland-St. John

I envy you, your 
Springtime in Arles
Even the orchard with its 
Gnarled trees that bear 
No leaves to tease 
The whispering 
Almond scented breeze

I know that orchard well...
Upon me, too, it once cast its spell
Its magic potion
The tile-roofed buildings 
You paint in halves
Right up to the canvas edge
Omitting completely the greening hedge
Where we once picnicked 
Amidst an ocean 
Of buttercups and daffodils 

In Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
With its rugged, jagged hills
I remember you in Marie's vineyard
Blue eyes shaded by your straw hat, 
Sketching this and that; 
Landmarks in the ancient 
Roman neighbourhood

Victor thrills to tell visitors
Where you stood 
When you painted their home,
Le Mas de Gavon

You make my heart sing 
With the joy of spring!

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