Home » Poems » Kenneth R. Merrill » The Tallest Tree

The Tallest Tree

Were I a boy of nine, or ten,
I would climb the tallest tree, and then,
Leap carefree from the highest bough—
Free of the fears that find me now.
Do you recall when you were ten?
And could you likewise be again,
What exploits would you dare to try—
And having not a reason why?
Perhaps I am too learned now,
Too wary of the highest bough.
But were I a boy of nine, or ten,
I would climb the tallest tree again!

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Jan Allison

Date: 9/14/2019 3:55:00 AM

Oh to go back to the halycon days of childhood where we did have the freedom to do these things and were fearless - lovely memories Ken and I love the repetition of the first two lines ... and would you climb that tree I wonder:-) hugs Jan xx

Kenneth R. Merrill
Date: 9/14/2019 9:35:00 AM

Hi Jan. I love your writes, so I appreciate your visit and feedback. Truth is, the tree is more of a metaphor for the “freedom” and “fearlessness” of youth you referenced. And to back is an interesting notion, and would we—if the years that followed were as they were? I do wonder ~ Ken

Sandra Adams

Date: 8/18/2019 10:34:00 AM

I always climbed trees at that age, the big oak had a perfect ledge to sit way above everything and see nature at it's finest, now i am leery as well but memory serves me well.... adore this poem, i can relate! Nicely penned :)

Kenneth R. Merrill
Date: 9/8/2019 2:34:00 AM

Thank you Sandra! I appreciate your feedback—all the best, Ken