The Poetry of Trees

One of the earliest poems I recall reading was titled, “Trees” by Joyce Kilmer. It begins,

I think that I shall never see

A poem lovely as a tree.

On my walks among the trees, I have come to understand that poets have a special relationship with the spirit of nature. Earth Mother wraps her loving arm around the poet and holds them close to her because she knows they do not experience the world as others do. She understands, with great vulnerability comes great insight and inspiration that is often underappreciated in a society focused on commodification.  In response, poets use words in patterns and forms that connect our truest selves with the deeper meaning of life. In my experience, that is often best explored through relationship with trees.

I, like many others, went through a variety of swings – up and down – in both mood and thought during the pandemic. A sudden inspiration and drive led me to my favourite part of a nearby park that was filled with trees. Quieter than other more open areas and laden with spruce needles over mostly bare soil, people seeking sun and soft grass have no interest there and that suits me just fine. I walk among these beautiful beings carrying a book of poems, stopping every so often to recite one or two softly – in a voice meant only for the trees – then move along slowly with a decidedly light step.

This practice has shown me that the vibrational elements of my voice, the inherent beauty of the poet’s language, and my intentional presence with them creates a reciprocal and endearing relationship with trees. They respond to poetry because they are poetry, both as inspiration for and the result of verse. The soul of the poet is birthed by trees and placed in flesh and bone to bring lyrical language to the page as a reminder to all, to love.