Red Rose
Òdòdó Ẹyẹ́
Translation: Befitting flower for all occasions
The itinerant musician's song beautifully compares a woman to a rose, symbolizing her beauty, grace, and importance in a man's life. Just as a rose is a befitting flower for all occasions, a woman is the sunshine of a man's life, the flower of his soul. This comparison not only highlights the woman's beauty but also her significance and the role she plays in a man's life.
A rose, the epitome of beauty, captivates with its dazzling color and sweet-smelling fragrance. Its delicate petals are meticulously arranged, a testament to its creator's artistry. Similarly, the creator fashioned a woman in the image of the rose, and the musician sang. The red rose unveils its beauty with its delicate stem, green leaves, and pure fragrance. It mirrors a woman's strength, elegance, and character, reflecting her unfading beauty.
The rose, though fragile, is not defenseless. It is adorned with thorns, a protective barrier against those who seek its fragrance without love, respect, and care. Similarly, a woman often confronts unwarranted oppression, harassment, and violation. Yet, like a rose shielded by its thorns, she possesses an innate protective system. She showcases this resilience and strength, inspiring all who witness her.
"As small as a needle is, it is not what a chicken can swallow," a Yoruba proverb concurs. This proverb, deeply rooted in Yoruba culture, is a powerful reminder of the consequences of malicious behavior towards a woman, as emphasized by the women's movement.
The painting is of a woman playfully admiring a red rose flower. Her playful demeanor reflects women's joy and resilience, even in the face of adversity. This connection between the woman's playfulness and the red rose's symbolism further emphasizes women's beauty and strength.