Small bundle of carnations,
held together in plastic and twine.
Passed across the threshold
in hands that are shaking,
like a plane with turbulence.

Medium bunch of roses,
wrapped in satin and silk.
Carried down the long aisle
by a woman clutching them,
like a good luck charm.

Large bouquet of lilies,
confined in a glass vase.
Placed in the centre
of a bare and empty table,
like a single stroke on a canvas.

A single white orchid,
laid on top of the coffin.
Starting the pile
of flowers to follow,
like the first brick of a wall.