The brilliant colors, delicate natures, and scents of flowers have mesmerized humankind since ancient times. Whether consciously or not, flowers evoke feelings and meaning.
What is it that prompts me to purchase a batch of fresh tulips in February for my kitchen table? Possibly I am yearning for a little color after a long, dark winter, or a little taste of spring to come. Maybe I am looking for a little renewal in my life. It is quite possible that I am reading a little too much into this tulips purchase, but there is an element of truth in all of those answers.Why do we send roses to loved ones, or forget-me-nots to someone far away? There is just something primal about flowers as a way to communicate what’s in our hearts.Lensmaster pastiche knows quite a bit about the symbolism of flowers, what she calls “floriography.” On her lens, The Secret Language of Flowers, she explores the meaning of flowers symbolizing love and desire, flowers for celebration and remembrance, and even flowers that represent ill will and anger. In terms of love alone, there are flowers that indicate love at first sight, fidelity, chaste love, or hopeless love. Now I understand that when my husband brings home sunflowers from the farmer’s market, it means he adores me! I wonder if he knows that?Some flowers have dual and contradictory meanings. For example, Pastiche writes, “Poppies can symbolize both good and evil. The Wizard of Oz film used poppies in a drug-related negative manner, however poppies are also a symbol of remembrance for those who lost their lives in armed conflict.” Besides learning the meaning of flowers on this lens, you will be treated to flower quotes, beautiful images of flowers, and resources to learn more about the symbolism of flowers.So, the next time you send a bouquet of flowers, think about what you are saying!Visit: The Language of Flowers
I learnt a lot from this delightful article about floriography from Pastiche. Many of the flowers with negative meanings were ones we would probably shy away from such as Venus Fly Trap and Deadly Nightshade(!), so I too was surprised to see poppies and also the narcissus and lavender there. In any case, here's to more sunflowers in your life, Kim!
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely article. Sure going to think twice before I send flowers the next time.
ReplyDeleteLove Pastiche's work, Kim. And sunflowers meaning adoration, well, it somehow fits perfectly. :)
ReplyDeleteKim- I never really thought of the meaning of a flower....just bought them if I liked them, or knew the recipient liked them. Just read the Article you mentioned and 2 stick in my mind...Grandparents Day Flower, and the Sunflower :)
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