They stand still, dangling their heads in mid air, as
if bent over by curiosity, catching the eyes of
bystanders as they plant their roots and intertwine
their bodies under a dim lit sun

Their arms lightly touch along the spines of one
another, grabbing second glances as they kiss gently
from tip to tips—shifting earth's gravitational grip—
slipping sensual aromas into the timid crowds,
stealing attention

They caress with their fingers anyone who draws
nearer and nearer, collecting corroded
notions—creating, blending, coalescing and
infusing carnal spirits—for those who fail to ignore
what lurks before them; they splitting minutes
of the mind divided

and

             across

from
  
            them

is

           a

                          shy melancholy rose. softhearted,
                          cordial, dancing alone.