"The lily is a flower of contradictions: it represents both life and death, appearing at weddings as well as funerals. In their pure white form, lilies are a symbol of innocence, chastity and purity of heart, but the highly fragrant and intensely coloured lilies symbolize passion. In Lily, Marcia Reiss explores these paradoxes, tracing the flower's cultural significance in art, literature, religion and popular culture throughout history."--Publisher website.