The Slipper Orchid (Paphiopedilum)

(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Paphiopedilum_2.jpg)

it entered my house via Karel,

a present from his father, wrapped

in an edition of El Pais,

which unravelled revealed a strange

cantilevered plant, four thin arms extended

in a fine high-wire balancing act,

at each tip an inviting mouth

scented, honeyed syrup dripping

from a green clitoris inviting kisses,

framed by twinned labia fragile drooping,

and crowned by a rising dove full winged.

many hours were spent observing,

shepherding flies into the room,

mentally guiding, soft landing them

into its welcoming pink maw.

such spaces I am familiar with -

intriguing, subtly enticing -

my wife’s sweet snug drawing me in

and caught I unwilling to leave.

so too I watch these flies descend,

sinking surrender, slowly accept

this bloom’s their final place of rest.