© Sean N. Zelda “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” A rose? But if not for a rose’s smell, then what of its thorns? The thorns cut deep and scar the skin, but a rose’s smell is just as well. While one exceeds, the other is doomed to linger. A rose may be a scent and feel, but don’t discount its soft appeal, its thorns will tear and scratch and peel. But the flavor is so fine! Like fruit soaked in wine, the aroma masks the darkness lurking inside. A rose so sweet, subtle and discreet, cannot be fit for a lover’s retreat. The allure, while thoughtful, can make one so sorrowful when he reaches and pricks a finger. With only a taste for travesty, you and me, my rose, can never be.