The Day of the Carrot

The day is coming when a single carrot, freshly observed, will set off a revolution. Paul Cezanne


The Day of the Carrot

By its nobility, by its sacrifice and by its sweetness
you will recognize it.
No one can question the character of the carrot.
Honour the pain it feels when peeled or grated,
boiled or cremated..
Always remember the family of carrots.
So much more than a taproot:
a seeker, a pure creature of sun and rain.
It exceeds all expectations, it rises
inevitably glowing, it lies there complete.
Multiple and singular, baby and ancient,
we listen to its songs if we are able.
Root carrier of inspiration, when sliced open
phloem and xylem are clearly spoken,
always enhancing our flaccid occasions.
Carry one with you wherever you go:
this vegetable will guide you through various stages
towards a full sense of the possible harvest.
New carrots will come shouldering out of the earth.