Is it just me, or is there something more poignant and yet beautiful about natures passing? Why, when the first image of this clematis flower is so stunning, am I drawn more to its demise? For me, the first image is so dazzling and overblown that it confuses me. Its intricacy and subtlety is missing because its perfection demands so much attention. The second image interests me. It draws me in to look at its complexity; the fur on the leaves, the way its folded in on itself, its color washed out, but so rich in shape and texture.