The Cornflower, and Other Poems

A prairie schoolteacher's argument with a prosperous farmer opens Jean Blewett's collection of Canadian verse. In the title poem, Ned hires Betty to teach the local children, then faces her demands for a warmer schoolhouse and a safer well. Cornfields, farm work and lively conversation give this dispute over money and responsibility a familiar rural setting. Other narrative poems draw on courtship, domestic quarrels and the small misunderstandings that shape relationships.

The collection also moves into public remembrance, prayer and affection for Canada. A poem on Queen Victoria sets her youthful queenship beside the grief following her death, while "Thankfulness" gives equal attention to joy, work and weariness. "The Native Born" finds national pride in summer orchards and winter weather. Readers interested in Canadian poetry can follow the change from spoken, story-driven verse to reflective poems about faith, home and belonging.