Red

with the burst of fresh plum blossoms,
Parchments dipped in ink dripping blessings,
Moneyed citrus trees frisson joyously as
Firecrackers ring brass railings tipped in jade.

Your doors are flanked by spring couplets,
Each calling forth a prosperous new year,
Golden oxen pull at your burdens as
Their honeyed horns slice fast into the sun.

Red packets of love and goodwill,
Dancing lions leap with mouths wide open,
Buoyed lanterns hang fat with potential as
We watch, each masked in red, with guarded hope.