Among the Trees Again

Chapter 40: FOREBODING

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About This Book

A sequence of short lyrical poems evokes rural and coastal scenes and the passage of seasons through attentive images of trees, birds, rivers, gardens, and moonlit hours. Each poem pairs precise natural description with a reflective mood, moving from springtime awakenings and playful vignettes to quieter autumnal and wintry meditations. Recurring motifs include longing for intimate contact with green growth, the music of bird-song and water, and gentle sentiments about memory, friendship, and sympathy. The pieces favor delicate imagery and musical diction, alternating lively observation with contemplative reverie.

FOREBODING

The scarlet briars trailed across
The grave I journeyed far to see;
Upon the stone, half hid in moss,
“Prepare for death, and follow me.”

The birds flew southward down the sky;
Upon a golden linden tree
The leaves that fluttered seemed to sigh,
“Prepare for death, and follow me.”

My father’s father slept below
So dreamless deep and silently,
I spelled the message soft and slow,
“Prepare for death, and follow me.”

—Ah me! ’twas years ago the birds
Fled swift o’er that far golden tree;
And wherefore now come back these words,
“Prepare for death, and follow me”?