A Talk With A Tree Poem by Sheena Blackhall

Through your bald branches
I see an open skylight

Have you ever decided to shut up shop?
To fly to Chile, Siberia, or Leamington Spa?
Be a tree of a different leaf?

What does morning sound like, to a tree?
All those chattering birds,
Those moaning winds
Lovesick foxes and grunting grumpy badgers

Will a house inherit your roots?
Like a goldfish trapped in a bowl
You're chained to your birth spot

Walkers in hobnailed boots
Trample your porch
Lovers etch names in your sides

Scallywag hares for neighbours
Mushrooms for tenants

It's April. Soon you'll be dressed
In your elfin negligee

What's that? No comment?
In summer you'll flaunt your skirts
Like the flare of flamenco
I applaud you tree,
Olé