If I Were a Tree

If I were a tree... I’d be a burley redwood in a western forest, Or a tall sequoia fully grown. Might be a stately elm among the lesser timber, Or a sturdy oak as tough as stone. But always prone to sometimes catching fire. If I were a tree... I’d be a sugar maple on a frosty morn, Or a lonesome pine along the run. Might be the village chestnut when the rumors fly, Or a weeping cherry in the sun. But you’re the one who sets my heart on fire. When you tease your slender matchstick To the edge of a spark, I give you the attention you require Until my cinders smolder down to windblown ash. Consume me with the passion of desire. If I were a tree... I’d be a bloomin’ dogwood in a small town park, Or a paper birch out in the ‘burbs. Might be a rose of Sharon left to grow too high, A lime tree bower for the birds. In Smokey’s words, “Only you can prevent wild fire.”