Who shall sing a simple ditty about the Willow, <br />Dainty-fine and delicate as any bending spray <br />That dandles high the dainty bird that flutters there to trill a <br />Tremulously tender song of greeting to the May. <br /> <br />Bravest, too, of all the trees! -- none to match your daring,-- <br />First of greens to greet the Spring and lead in leafy sheen;-- <br />Aye, and you're the last -- almost into winter wearing <br />Still the leaf of loyalty -- still the badge of green. <br /> <br />Ah, my lovely willow! --let the waters lilt your graces,-- <br />They alone with limped kisses lave your leaves above, <br />Flashing back your silvan beauty, and in shady places <br />Peering up with glimmering pebbles, like the eyes of love.<br /><br />James Whitcomb Riley<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/the-willow-2/
