Snake's-Head Fritillary

Flocks of wafting chequered bells
mauve or white – and on the latter’s dress
the chequered pattern lies
a watermark impress.
Abundant, when in spring they’re found
where water meadows still remain
traditionally managed ground:
they stun, surprise.
The ‘leper lilies’ gently nod and sound
a happier note than clapper cries
of long ago.