He soon discovers
the first morning
outside Eden
that Thorn and Thistle
are a meager beginning
in this new assignment.
Barberry, Briar, Burdock, Buttercup
Campion, Cockle, Cress
lead to an unaccustomed
weariness – Careless Weed, Stagger Wort
and lack of creativity –
Dog Mustard, Foxtail, Sheep Sorrel
Lamb’s Quarters, Pigweed, Fat Hen
White Goosefoot, Snake Grass…
With no end in sight
to pain, annoyance
discomfort and vexation
loathing enters the taxonomy –
Stinking Willie, Quack Grass, Fleabane
and with Lady’s Thumb and Sourgrass – dissension
with Smartweed – pride
Poverty Weed – fear
False Flax, False Ragwort – lying
Wild Barley, Wild Flax, Wild Oats – lust
and finally with Poison Ivy and Poison Hemlock –
murder.
Violet Nesdoly 