Dave,
I like the line of the stem. It is quite elegent. I imagine the success of this image is heavily dependant upon the delicate texture of the flower petals. That combined with a loss of tones through scanning prevents your vision from translating to us the way I believe it would in person. I really think the composition is quite lovely, if the tones and textures are not "blown out" on the print as you say I image this is a wonderful picture. I wish I could see the real print. All the best. doc