Autumnal leaves :: :: University of Virginia Library

Glorious flower! so gorgeously bright!
As if thou wert formed of orient-light!
In topaz, and gold, and velvet array,
Like an Eastern Queen on her bridal day!
Rich jewels the Sun to the Earth dropped down,
And the Earth gave him back thy floral crown.
Thy tints, glowing warm as a summer noon,
Seem painted tones from some amorous tune;
And surely thy varying flushes came
From Italian music's radiant flame;
Or, when Apollo touched his golden lyre,
Earth answered the sounds with thy brilliant fire.
Thy ardent blossoms were at first unfurled,
A love-letter written to all the world;
And not by day only, but even by night,
The writing shines through with phosphoric light.
That letter of love the Tropics sent forth,
Sealed full of sunshine, a gift to the North.
Bright Summer is proud thy garland to wear;
It shines like rich gems in Autumn's pale hair;
And it warms our homes with a sunny glow,
When earth has assumed her mantle of snow.
Wealth of bright beauty hast thou for thy dower,
Resplendent, warm-hearted, tropical flower!