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Papyrus
Papyrus - ورق البردي
Description
Cyperus papyrus
Papyrus is an elegant aquatic plant native to the marshes of Africa, most notably the Nile. It can be recognised by its long, slender stems topped with fine, umbrella-shaped green tufts. It thrives in damp soils and grows well both on the edge of ponds and in pots.
In ancient times, it was used to make the famous Egyptian « paper », a symbol of knowledge and culture. Today, it is used as a decorative element and contributes to the balance of aquatic ecosystems by filtering water. Its graceful appearance and light foliage make it a much-loved plant for its natural, soothing look.
The papyrus in the pond comes from the cuttings of a plant from the Cairo Archaeological Museum’s own pond, brought back from a trip in 1955.
Papyrus is an elegant aquatic plant native to the marshes of Africa, most notably the Nile. It can be recognised by its long, slender stems topped with fine, umbrella-shaped green tufts. It thrives in damp soils and grows well both on the edge of ponds and in pots.
In ancient times, it was used to make the famous Egyptian « paper », a symbol of knowledge and culture. Today, it is used as a decorative element and contributes to the balance of aquatic ecosystems by filtering water. Its graceful appearance and light foliage make it a much-loved plant for its natural, soothing look.
The papyrus in the pond comes from the cuttings of a plant from the Cairo Archaeological Museum’s own pond, brought back from a trip in 1955.
Poem
The Reeds
Feet at the bottom, heads to the skies
Pale green, then blue green, then bright and tender green.
Rough and prompt as if they no longer wish to wait,
The reeds dart forth from the lake.
Carrying their leaves like swords, they discourage
Their flowery plumes from spreading left and right
Sabre in hand, they stand erect
Discouraging birds to come to rest.
The mad wind, well aware that it cannot break them
Tries to bend them in all directions,
Pushing and coaxing for a confession.
Through flattery and tickles
The whistling wind threads its way in,
But the reeds cannot be swayed and remain upright!
Published in La Petite Cosmogonie Sentimentale, Éditions de la Revue Phénicienne, 2004.
