Uprooted

I used to rock my baby
‘Neath an overhanging tree
Which grew right by the river,
Just a block or two from me.

Its leafy boughs provided shade
To my most favorite bench,
A haven in the city
Where a new mom could entrench.

In recent years, those branches
Formed a bower where I’d rest,
To read or write a poem or two,
With breezes that caressed.

For more than thirty years, that tree
Has stood there like a friend.
I never ever thought I’d see
Its life abruptly end.

This morning, though, I passed that spot
And noticed too much sky.
The tree is gone, a fact my brain
Was dying to deny.

It isn’t worth it to protest;
The awful deed is done.
No more will strollers have a place
Of shelter from the sun.

But so much more than summer shade
This neighborhood has lost.
When roots are wrested from the ground,
To me, a line’s been crossed.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2013

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Johnson Avatar
May 1, 2013 at 10:09 AM
The story of the world, gets told in words unfurled. A document of good and bad of trees and things that we once had. We all are born, we live, we die. But it doesn't stop us asking why. Peace. :) Such a shame ilene. Was such a wonderful relaying until the uprooting. :(
Anish Avatar
April 28, 2013 at 11:25 AM
I used to have a cherry tree in my backyard which was very old and to my disappointment the tree was eventually cut down. Have you ever read J.R.R. Tolkien? He was a great lover of trees - as you seem to be. Fine verse here! Peace & Love Matthew Anish
Poet Avatar
April 27, 2013 at 12:32 PM
Yes,very heratfelt story of that tree.Enjoyed the read.Thanks for visiting my poem.
Horsman Avatar
April 27, 2013 at 9:59 AM
it only a tree could cry, but then your poetry tells us as it is anyway,, this is so visual, and heartfelt. ilene.
Andresen Avatar
April 26, 2013 at 9:54 AM
So sad ..... destroy your favorite place. . . Your place for memories and relaxing - A beautiful poem Ilene - wish you a lovely weekend. - oxox / / Anne-Lise :)
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace