In this poem, the speaker describes a red flower blooming in June 1914, amidst the impending doom of World War I. The flower's beauty and vibrancy serve as a stark contrast to the darkness and chaos that looms on the horizon. The speaker reflects on how the world is about to be torn apart by war, yet the flower remains untouched, symbolizing hope and resilience in the face of destruction.
By Henry Van Dyke · First published 1900 · Genre: Poetry, Historical, War