Emblems are we of joy and woe 
And tender recollections glow 
Inspired by our name; 
Our glossy leaves with flowers entwined 
Were made the bridai robe to bind 
In days of ancient famé. 
And we are also “ flowers of death” 
The mourning mother weaves a wreath 
Of our dark shining sprays; 
She twines it round the lovely head 
’Ere in its cold and silent bed 
Her child she sadly lays. 
Whene’er our blossomed stars you view 
Bethink you of life’s changing hue 
How joy and sorrow blend; 
That, though thy cup may now flow o’er 
Anguish may wring thy heart, before 
Life’s fitful day shall end! 
