Where a Fern Once Grew

Image Credit: Public Work

“Where a Fern Once Grew” is about love that once thrived in a relationship but, as time often does, slowly withered away. Much like an uprooted plant, traces of its existence remain. Love leaves behind its evidence too in our baggage, our demeanor, and the way we love those who come after our exes. This piece reflects on the empty space left behind when one root is pulled up, and the moment before we replant it with something new.

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Oh my, oh my, Oh my oh my,

I’ve crushed where a fern once grew.

Oh My, Oh No, what have I done?

I’ve crushed where a fern once grew.

I thought it was growing, I was too aloof to notice, now it’s gone and I don’t know where.

Oh my, Oh no, I’ve ripped up the ground,

Where a fern would grow, now I cry these tears over where a fern once grew.

I wish I had known, but this is something I should have knew, now the fern is dead.

Oh what will I do ?

Oh My, Oh My, oh no, what have I done?

I was too angry now I’ve stomped out the hole I dug, where a fern once grew.

Oh My oh my oh no, If only my tears could water these roots, so the fern can grow.

Where a Fern once grew, I knew of a way back home. Now I’m lost and all hope is gone.

Where a fern once grew, I knew this love was nourished, now it’s dirty and old. I’ve done no favors. But I hope it grows.

When I find my way, I’ll buy some soil. And bring it to where the fern once grew. And maybe it’ll grow, once more for me again.