Inspired by Maria Oakey Dewing

Painting and Poem

I break my fast 
With roses cracked 
In their own way 
Persisting by 	
Unfurling formed
Unto decay

Maria Oakey Dewing
Garden in May, 1895
oil on canvas
23 5⁄8 x 32 1⁄2 in. (60.1 x 82.5 cm.)
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Gift of John Gellatly, 1929.6.26