The Trees by John Gould Fletcher
This poem explores the relationship between nature and humanity through a series of vignettes that describe the changing seasons and their effects on the natural world. The speaker reflects on the cyclical nature of life and death, observing how trees grow, decay, and are reborn with each passing year. The poem also touches on themes of mortality, impermanence, and the fleeting nature of human existence. Throughout the work, the speaker's tone is contemplative and melancholic, often expressing a sense of awe and reverence for the natural world.
By John Gould Fletcher · First published 1936 · Genre: Poetry, Nature Writing, Symbolism · 97 words
First lines
When the moonlight strikes the tree-tops, The trees are not the same.
I know they are not the same, Because there is one tree that is missing, And it stood so long by another, That the other, feeling lonely, Now is slowly dying too.
When the moonlight strikes the tree-tops That dead tree comes back; Like a great blue sphere of smoke Half buoyed, half ravelling on the grass, Rustling through frayed Branches, Something eerily cheeping through it, Something creeping through its shade.
What this Textopian page supports
The Trees is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Gould Fletcher, dated 1936 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: John Gould Fletcher
- Date: 1936 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Nature Writing, Symbolism, Romanticism, Imagism
- Length: 97 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work employs lyrical language, imagery, and rhythm typical of poetic forms.
- Nature Writing — The themes focus on trees and the natural world, exploring their significance and emotional impact.
- Symbolism — The trees and their interactions symbolize deeper emotional and existential themes.
- Romanticism — The work reflects a deep appreciation for nature and emotional expression, characteristic of Romantic literature.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Symbolism · Imagery · Metaphor · Allegory · Folklore · Mythology · Regionalism · Southern Gothic · American Literature · 20th Century Literature