The poem reflects on the themes of life, death, and the connection between the living and the departed. The speaker contrasts a desolate, neglected garden with a more vibrant, nurturing space under an apple tree. This setting symbolizes growth, care, and the cycle of life, emphasizing the importance of tangible, earthly experiences over abstract notions of communion with the dead. The speaker expresses a deep connection to the apple tree, highlighting the labor and love invested in its care. The imagery of "gnarled hands" suggests a life of toil and dedication, while the "chemic change and circle of life" evokes the natural processes that bind all living things. The apple tree serves as a metaphor for legacy and continuity, with its fruit representing the tangible results of one's efforts. The poem ultimately conveys a sense of fulfillment found in nurturing life and the natural world, contrasting with the futility of longing for connections that transcend the physical realm. The speaker's reflections reveal a profound appreciation for the cycles of nature and the enduring impact of one's actions on the living landscape.
By Edgar Lee Masters · First published 1916 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Nature Writing