Trees
by Joyce Kilmer
I think that I shall never see
A poem lovely as a tree.A tree whose hungry mouth is pressed
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.
Understanding “Trees”
Joyce Kilmer’s “Trees” is a deceptively simple yet profoundly moving poem, first published in 1913. It is a lyrical celebration of nature, specifically the majestic beauty and spiritual resonance of trees. The poem is not simply about admiring trees; it is a comparative exploration of art and creation, ultimately positioning God’s creation—the tree—as surpassing human artistic endeavors, such as poetry itself. The central idea revolves around nature, divine creation, and a sense of human humility. It remains one of the most widely read and memorized poems in the English language, often introduced to students as a starting point for appreciating poetry and nature’s wonder.
A Closer Look at the Poem’s Core
The poem begins with a startling confession: the speaker declares that he cannot envision a poem as lovely as a tree. This immediately establishes the tree as the benchmark of beauty and sets the stage for a detailed depiction of its magnificence. Kilmer does not merely describe the tree’s physical appearance; he imbues it with life, emotion, and even spirituality. It invites us to look beyond the wood and leaves and see the divine artistry within.
In-Depth Analysis of “Trees”
Lines 1–4: Establishing the Central Comparison
I think that I shall never see
A poem lovely as a tree.A tree whose hungry mouth is pressed
Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast;
The poem launches with a bold statement. “I think that I shall never see / A poem lovely as a tree.” This isn’t a dismissal of poetry, but rather an acknowledgement of the sublime beauty and inherent perfection found in nature. Notice the use of the word “lovely” – it is not just about visual appeal, but an emotional connection. The second couplet employs powerful personification. The tree is given a “hungry mouth” pressed “against the earth’s sweet flowing breast,” vividly portraying its life‑sustaining connection to the earth. This image is not about literal hunger, but the tree’s deep need and dependence on the earth for nourishment, presented in nurturing, maternal terms. Kilmer cleverly establishes a dynamic relationship between the tree and the earth, one of symbiotic dependence and loving connection.
Lines 5–8: Spirituality and Shelter
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;
Kilmer elevates the tree to a spiritual being. “A tree that looks at God all day, / And lifts her leafy arms to pray.” This isn’t literal worship, but a metaphorical representation of the tree’s upward growth and its connection to the heavens. The branches reaching toward the sky are reimagined as “leafy arms” lifted in prayer. The imagery suggests a natural piety, an inherent connection between the tree and the divine. The subsequent lines introduce the idea of the tree as a provider of shelter and life. “A tree that may in summer wear / A nest of robins in her hair.” This is a charming and tender image, presenting the tree as a nurturing mother figure, offering a safe haven for other creatures. The comparison of the nest to “hair” is a delicate and inventive touch, further humanizing the tree.
Lines 9–12: Intimacy with Nature and Humble Acknowledgement
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.
The poem emphasizes the tree’s complete immersion in the natural world. “Upon whose bosom snow has lain; / Who intimately lives with rain.” The “bosom” imagery continues the maternal personification, while “intimately lives with rain” suggests a deep and harmonious relationship with the elements. The final couplet delivers the poem’s central message. “Poems are made by fools like me, but only God can make a tree.” The speaker humbly acknowledges the limitations of human art, contrasting it with the perfection of divine creation. The use of the word “fools” is striking, reflecting a sense of self‑deprecation and a recognition of the vastness of God’s artistry. This is not a rejection of poetry itself, but rather a sincere acknowledgement that nature, as a product of divine creation, surpasses any human artistic endeavor.
Literary and Poetic Devices in “Trees”
Literary Devices
- Personification: Throughout the poem, Kilmer consistently imbues the tree with human qualities, such as the “hungry mouth,” “leafy arms,” and the ability to “pray.” This brings the tree to life and allows readers to connect with it on an emotional level.
- Imagery: The poem is rich in vivid imagery, appealing to the reader’s senses. Phrases like “sweet flowing breast” and “bosom snow has lain” create clear and memorable mental pictures.
- Metaphor: The entire poem can be read as an extended metaphor, comparing the tree to a perfect work of art and a symbol of divine creation.
Poetic Devices
- Rhyme Scheme: The poem follows a consistent AABB rhyme scheme, creating a musical and flowing rhythm.
- Meter: The poem is written in iambic tetrameter, meaning each line contains four iambic feet (an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable). This contributes to the poem’s smooth and predictable rhythm.
- Couplet: The poem is structured entirely in rhyming couplets, further emphasizing its musicality and creating a sense of balance and harmony.
- Alliteration: While subtle, there are instances of alliteration, such as the repetition of the “s” sound in “snow has lain,” which add to the poem’s sonic appeal.
Quotes for Reflection
The following lines capture the essence of “Trees” and can be used for analysis or discussion:
- “A tree whose hungry mouth is pressed / Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast” – illustrates the tree’s vital connection to nature and its dependence on the earth.
- “A tree that looks at God all day, / And lifts her leafy arms to pray” – represents the tree’s spiritual connection and its inherent beauty.
- “Poems are made by fools like me, but only God can make a tree” – expresses humility and acknowledges the superiority of divine creation.
“Trees” remains a beloved poem because of its simple yet profound message: the beauty of nature is a testament to the power and artistry of divine creation. It invites us to appreciate the world around us and to recognize the inherent wonder in even the simplest of things.