The importance of the Christmas tree and the fact that, for many, it represents eternal life, has me thinking about a poem written by Joyce Kilmer in 1913, first published in 1914.

The title is simple: “Trees.” I learned this poem in grade school and it is one of the most remembered and beloved pieces of American poetry. Kilmer was born in 1886 and served in the 69th Volunteer Infantry Regiment in World War I. He was killed in the second battle of Marne, France in 1918 but his poetry is lasting.

Trees

I think that I shall never see
A poem as lovely as a tree.

A tree whose hungry mouth is prest
Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast;

A tree that looks at God all day,
And lifts her leafy arms to pray;

A tree that may in summer wear
A nest of robins in her hair;

Upon whose bosom snow has lain;
Who intimately lives with rain.

Poems are made by fools like me,
But only God can make a tree.

Many artists have chosen trees as the focal point of their work. I enjoy trees in all seasons. My favorite ones would have to be Birch, Oak, and Balsam Fir. When I think of Birch, I recall Robert Frost and a book I have entitled, “A Swinger of Birches.” When I ponder the Oak tree, I think of all the acorns it provides to animals. The Balsam Fir has an irresistible smell on which one could become inebriated with Nature. That tree is the very essence of Christmas. Trees for shade, trees for fresh air, trees for fruit and nuts, trees for Christmas — No matter what kind, all trees are wonderful!

Patricia Cummings

This entry was posted on Tuesday, December 25th, 2007 at 10:52 pm and is filed under . You can follow any responses to this entry through the feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.