Charles M. Moore - Behind the sunflowers

While sitting one day in my garden
writing things I'd like to say
a little girl of five or six
came asking if I'd like to play

The little girl tugged at my sleeve
and beckoned me to go her way
her blue eyes pleading, please forgive me
I just need some company

'My name is Sarah', 'what is yours'?
'this is where I used to stay'
'you remind me of my father
just before he went away'

She looked neglected in a frocked dress
from a style of yesterday
running barefoot, giggling, laughing
wishing me to come and play

Bewildered I stood watching, waiting
then she threw a ball my way
I stumbled forward trying to catch
this tied up ball of rags and hay

We played pass and then she asked
if she could have some lemonade
I gave my glass and on the grass
we compared daisy chains we made

She placed her garland round my neck
I did the same and then she said
you're such a friend, can I come back
and play with you another day

I said of course as she stood up
she kissed my head and ran away
into some sunflowers I had planted
by the pond one summer's day

Now and then when in the garden
I hear her giggle as she plays
behind the sunflowers near the pond
that gently sway on summer days.

Charles M. Moore

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/behind-the-sunflowers/