That Tree

Summary

An elderly individual reflects on a lifelong connection with a tree, which symbolizes a bond with their deceased brother, culminating in a final act of setting the tree ablaze as a form of liberation and reunion.

Abstract

The narrative poem describes the significant moments of a person's life centered around a tree, which serves as a backdrop for childhood games, a refuge in a moment of crisis, and a silent witness to hidden emotions. As the protagonist ages, the tree becomes a focal point for unresolved grief and a symbol of past traumas. In a defiant act, the protagonist douses the tree with gasoline and sets it alight, purging their fear and pain. The fire represents both a farewell to the world and a joyful reunion with the protagonist's brother in death, as the tree and the individual are consumed together.

Opinions

The tree is portrayed as a central figure in the protagonist's life, evoking a range of emotions from joy to sorrow.
There is a sense of betrayal and secrecy associated with the tree, indicated by the lines "Later, slapped and told not to tell."
The protagonist's actions suggest a desire for control and a final act of autonomy in the face of mortality.
The act of setting the tree on fire is depicted as an act of catharsis and liberation from societal expectations and personal demons.
The poem conveys a complex relationship with memory, where the tree serves as a living monument to the past that must be destroyed for the protagonist to find peace.
The final lines imply a sense of reconciliation and acceptance of death, as the protagonist anticipates joining their brother after the tree's destruction.

That Tree

I’ve walked by that tree for sixty-three There’s no more that I foresee. Little brother, they deceived Little brother, hard I grieved.

Hoop and stick around that tree Around and around, we were free. Laughing and dizzy when we fell Later, slapped and told not to tell.

Everyone ran to that tree Hurry now was Granny’s plea. She cried out filled with dread Hurry up, before he’s dead.

Tears on your face at that tree Your fear there for all to see. Emotions hidden, until betrayed When the chair was pushed away.

Now I’m old, soon to die One last act which I won’t deny. Red can in hand as I walk I must do this and I won’t balk.

Splashed and splattered on that tree I’m done being scared I can guarantee. In my pocket, I pull out A tiny matchstick soon to shout.

One small light against that tree I watch as it catches and must agree It will sputter before its caught. A tiny spark because I had not forgot.

Red and orange bursts against that tree People walk out of their homes to see. They didn’t help, they won’t admit They’re included in my spit

As it sizzles and that tree burns In the smoke, my heart returns. Your face, your smile big My heart jumps up to dance a jig.

Soon, dear brother, that tree is dead I will soon follow in your stead. I no longer care what they say In your hug, I will lay.

Come morning’s light that tree is gone So am I whence come the dawn. It’s okay, my peace is made At that tree where once we played.

This was based on a prompt:

That Tree

Tired of Writing Prompts? Good. Here’s Another One

It’s about a tree.