Flower Power

 

“Flower power” nowadays is cute;

You see it on pee-chees and pillows.

But its root bore a different meaning,

In response to wartime billows.

The Vietnam War, to be exact,

Saw many protesting its cause—

And hippies ‘round the globe

Were pointing out its flaws.

They favored peace, non-violence—

Thus “flower power” was coined

By beat poet Allen Ginsberg—

An ethos many joined.

The messages, “Love your neighbor”

And “I speak for the suffering poor”

Were among the mantras voiced

By those who opposed the war.

But why was it “flower power”

Instead of a different jive?

We could ask Allen Ginsberg

If he were still alive.

“Squirrel power” or “elephant power”

I guess wouldn’t have the same ring,

And the motto “pumpkin power”

Wouldn’t likely turn into a ‘thing.’

So, we’re stuck with “flower power,”

In terms of the history in place;

But flowers, rainbows, and butterflies

Do bring a smile to the face.

 

 © 2024 Teresa Miles Kephart