by Margarita Engle
Rose petal jam, rosebud candy
carved into the shapes of people,
beasts, birds; syrup of violets,
the variations are soothing.
Even the names convey magic
mimosa butter sandwiches,
nasturtium sauce, marigold soup,
carnations for melancholy,
the fragrance of rose leaves and mint
for sleep, tucked in a pillow…dreams…