"Trees"
Joyce Kilmer
I think that I shall never see
A poem 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.
Copyright Credit: Joyce Kilmer, “Trees” from Poetry 2, no. 5 (August 1915): 153.
Source: Poetry (August 1913)
Joyce Kilmer (1886–1918) was an American poet, journalist, and literary critic, best known for his poem "Trees" (1913), which reflects his deep religious faith and love of nature. Born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, he studied at Rutgers and Columbia University, where he developed his literary voice. Though often considered sentimental by critics, Kilmer’s traditional, lyrical style resonated with a wide readership.
In 1913, Kilmer converted to Catholicism, and his spirituality became central to his writing. He contributed essays and reviews to major publications, including The New York Times and The Nation. When the U.S. entered World War I, Kilmer enlisted in the Army and served with the famed "Fighting 69th." He was killed in action in France in 1918 at age 31.
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