Forest Tree

Summary

The web content is a reflective poem titled "Forest Tree" that metaphorically compares the author's family history, artistic expression, scientific curiosity, and poetic inspiration to different aspects of a tree.

Abstract

"Forest Tree" is a contemplative poem that explores the author's multifaceted connection with trees. It begins with a personal exploration of the author's ancestry, likening the branches of a family tree to the physical branches of a tree that reach into the past, with roots in Scotland, England, and France. The poem then shifts to the author's artistic endeavors, describing the use of various mediums to capture the essence of nature, including flowers, landscapes, and the changing seasons. The author further delves into the mysteries of science, specifically the chemical processes within an oak tree that transform sunlight into energy. Finally, the poem concludes with the tree as a source of poetic inspiration, highlighting its role in the ecosystem and its provision of oxygen, which brings calm and creativity to the poet.

Opinions

The author values the connection to their ancestry, viewing it as a strong foundation akin to the roots and branches of a tree.
Artistic expression is seen as a natural and integral part of the author's life, much like the growth rings of a tree.
There is a sense of wonder and respect for the scientific processes that occur within a tree, particularly photosynthesis.
The poem conveys a deep appreciation for the natural world, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all living things.
The tree is personified as a nurturing entity that provides shelter, oxygen, and inspiration, reflecting the author's reverence for nature.

A poem

Photo by Author, Adelia Ritchie

My family studies records of our ancestors’ births, deaths, offspring branches reaching deep into the past into Scotland England France — our family tree.

I practice art, paintings in pastels, acrylics, watercolors, multimedia sometimes. Flowers and landscapes sun and rain summer and fall gnarly trunks and bent branches — my artist tree.

I ponder the dance of atoms, molecules, electrons, in their mystery within the old oak that leans protectively over my studio making energy inside its leaves. The sun warms and catalyzes, brings life to my chemist tree.

This ancient tree shelters songbirds, tree frogs, ants and weevils, webbed in fungal communication with the forest, the grass, and with me. Its sweet oxygen breath intoxicates, calms, inspires — my poet tree.