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,” first published in 1913, stands as a timeless and beloved lyrical celebration of nature. This poem, often memorized and recited, explores the profound beauty and spiritual significance of trees. At its core, “Trees” presents a comparative study of human artistry versus divine creation. The poem’s central idea asserts that the inherent perfection and majesty of a tree, as a creation of God, far surpass any human artistic endeavor, including poetry itself. This perspective fosters a deep sense of humility regarding human creative capacity when compared to the grandeur of the natural world.
The Essence of “Trees”
The poem opens with a striking declaration: the speaker expresses an inability to conceive of any poem as beautiful as a tree. This initial statement immediately positions the tree as the ultimate standard of loveliness and sets the stage for a rich, detailed portrayal of its magnificence. Kilmer’s approach extends beyond mere physical description; the poet infuses the tree with vibrant life, profound emotion, and a distinct spiritual essence. The poem encourages readers to perceive beyond the physical form of wood and leaves, inviting contemplation of the divine artistry embedded within nature.
In-Depth Analysis of “Trees”
Lines 1–4: The Unrivaled Beauty of Nature
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 commences with a powerful assertion that immediately establishes its central theme. The speaker declares, “I think that I shall never see / A poem lovely as a tree.” This is not a rejection of poetry’s value, but rather a profound recognition of nature’s sublime beauty and inherent perfection. The term “lovely” here encompasses not only visual appeal but also a deep emotional and spiritual resonance. Following this, the second couplet introduces striking personification. The tree is depicted with a “hungry mouth” pressed “Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast.” This vivid imagery portrays the tree’s essential, life-sustaining connection to the earth. The “hungry mouth” symbolizes the tree’s roots absorbing nutrients, while the “earth’s sweet flowing breast” evokes a nurturing, maternal image. This establishes a dynamic and symbiotic relationship, highlighting the tree’s dependence on the earth for its very existence.
Lines 5–8: Spirituality and Nurturing Life
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 continues to elevate the tree beyond a mere plant, imbuing it with spiritual qualities. The lines, “A tree that looks at God all day, / And lifts her leafy arms to pray,” employ personification to suggest a profound connection between the tree and the divine. The upward growth of the branches is metaphorically transformed into “leafy arms” raised in prayer, symbolizing a natural reverence and an inherent link to the heavens. This imagery conveys a sense of innate piety. The following couplet expands on the tree’s role as a giver of life and shelter: “A tree that may in summer wear / A nest of robins in her hair.” This tender image presents the tree as a nurturing, maternal figure, offering a safe haven for other creatures. The comparison of the bird’s nest to “hair” is a delicate and imaginative touch, further enhancing the tree’s human-like qualities and its role as a protector.
Lines 9–12: Harmony with Elements and Divine Creation
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 further emphasizes the tree’s deep integration into the natural world and its resilience through seasons. “Upon whose bosom snow has lain; / Who intimately lives with rain” continues the maternal personification, depicting the tree as enduring and embracing the elements. The “bosom” here suggests a comforting, enduring presence, while “intimately lives with rain” conveys a profound and harmonious relationship with nature’s cycles. The concluding couplet delivers the poem’s powerful and often-quoted central message: “Poems are made by fools like me, but only God can make a tree.” This statement serves as a humble acknowledgment of the limitations of human artistic creation when juxtaposed with the perfection of divine artistry. The speaker’s self-deprecating use of “fools” highlights a profound reverence for the vastness and unparalleled beauty of God’s creations. This final thought is not a dismissal of poetry but a sincere recognition that the inherent wonder and complexity of a tree, as a product of divine design, transcends any human artistic achievement.
Literary and Poetic Devices in “Trees”
Joyce Kilmer’s “Trees” masterfully employs a range of literary and poetic devices to convey its profound message and enhance its musicality. Understanding these elements enriches the appreciation of the poem’s artistry.
Literary Devices in “Trees”
- Personification: This is perhaps the most prominent literary device in “Trees.” Kilmer consistently attributes human qualities and actions to the tree, bringing it to life and fostering a deeper emotional connection for the reader. Examples include the tree’s “hungry mouth,” its “leafy arms” that “pray,” and its ability to “wear” a nest in its “hair.”
- Imagery: The poem is rich with vivid imagery that appeals to the senses and creates clear mental pictures. Phrases such as “earth’s sweet flowing breast,” “nest of robins in her hair,” and “bosom snow has lain” evoke strong visual and tactile sensations, immersing the reader in the tree’s world.
- Metaphor: The poem itself functions as an extended metaphor. The tree is not merely a plant but stands as a symbol of divine creation, natural perfection, and a testament to God’s artistry, which is implicitly compared to and elevated above human artistic endeavors like poetry.
Poetic Devices in “Trees”
- Rhyme Scheme: “Trees” adheres to a consistent AABB rhyme scheme throughout its stanzas. This regular pattern, such as “see”/“tree” and “pressed”/“breast,” creates a flowing, musical rhythm that makes the poem memorable and pleasant to read aloud.
- Meter: The poem is predominantly written in iambic tetrameter. Each line typically contains four iambic feet, where an unstressed syllable is followed by a stressed syllable (da-DUM da-DUM da-DUM da-DUM). This steady, predictable rhythm contributes to the poem’s smooth and accessible quality.
- Couplet: The entire poem is structured in rhyming couplets, meaning each pair of lines rhymes and forms a complete thought. This structural choice reinforces the poem’s balance, harmony, and lyrical nature.
- Alliteration: While subtle, alliteration, the repetition of initial consonant sounds, adds to the poem’s sonic appeal. An example can be found in the repetition of the “s” sound in “snow has lain,” which creates a gentle, flowing effect.
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.
The Enduring Legacy of “Trees”
Joyce Kilmer’s “Trees” continues to resonate deeply with readers across generations, celebrated for its profound yet accessible message. The poem beautifully articulates that the unparalleled beauty and intricate design of nature serve as a powerful testament to divine creation. It encourages a deeper appreciation for the natural world, prompting reflection on the inherent wonder present in even the most common elements of our environment. The enduring appeal of “Trees” lies in its ability to inspire humility, reverence, and a renewed sense of awe for the world around us, solidifying its place as a cherished piece of English poetry.