The Sounds, Growing

Flowers are far from speechless,

though some speak with a drawl

so slow we don't notice them speaking,

much less singing -

lobelia doing their weary blues,

the poppies blowing out their party favors.

It all happens at an undertone,

or at the highest pitches,

or in key largo:

marigolds crying out in their tinny voices,

choruses of munchkins,

while, nearby,

the oak tree's cannon booms,

resonating in a tone so deep

it takes root in us all,

makes us dream

of taking a permanent stand,

speaking worlds all can hear

and understand.