The Moon and Peonies

Artist’s Note

Five peonies open under the full moon.
Their shapes are quiet, their presence steady.
Between them, a small bud leans forward,
not quite blooming, but no longer hidden.

In New Mexico, the moon is almost always clear.
I remember the air that night, dry, still, and sharp with light.

I found myself sending the moon a quiet plea,
not one, but many,
as many as the petals.

Symbol note

• Why do we make wishes on the full moon?
• What the bud holds.