Reflecting on the recent coverage The Orkney News has given to the many lovely gardens we have reader Bernie Bell has sent us in her choice of poem on this theme.

My Life’s Stem Was Cut by Helen Dunmore

My life’s stem was cut,

But quickly, lovingly

I was lifted up,

I heard the rush of the tap

And I was set in water

In the blue vase, beautiful

In lip and curve,

And here I am

Opening one petal

As the tea cools.

I wait while the sun moves

And the bees finish their dance.

I know I am dying

But why not keep flowering

As long as I can

From my cut stem?