April 1 – some would say a day for fool’ s- but I say it’s a day for poets. April is National Poetry Month, in honor of which I post a favorite poem, one that comes to mind whenever I’m out walking (as I was earlier this evening) among the trees.
When I Am Among the Trees
by Mary Oliver
When I am among the trees,
especially the willows and the honey locust,
equally the beech, the oaks and the pines,
they give off such hints of gladness,
I would almost say that they save me, and daily.
I am so distant from the hope of myself,
in which I have goodness, and discernment,
and never hurry through the world
but walk slowly, and bow often.
Around me the trees stir in their leaves
and call out “Stay awhile.”
The light flows from their branches.
And they call again, “It’s simple,” they say,
“and you too have come
into the world to do this, to go easy, to be filled
with light, and to shine.”
Love it.
Now tell me, do you have a favorite poem to share?
Lovely poem, Becca! Thank you for reminding me it’s poetry month. I shall have to find a way to honour that on my site!
I feel clumsy with poetry but I loved this! You’ve inspired me to memorize this. Thank you.
This is a great example of Oliver’s style and depth. I love this poem as well. Thanks for sharing it with us and participating in the celebration of poetry.
I really like Mary Oliver’s poetry. I have so many favorite poems. I think it changes daily
Happy Poetry Month!
“I would almost say that they save me, and daily.” Yes. Oliver is probably our premier poet of ‘natural connection.’
Thanks for sharing this one. Happy Poetry Month, indeed!
I love Mary Oliver’s poetry.
Beautiful!
What a great poem! I’m adding it to my journal. Every time I’m out for a walk, I try to remember to “pay attention”. I posted on of my favorite poems here: http://classicvasilly.wordpress.com/2009/04/02/another-poem/
I’ve just recently discovered Mary Oliver last year, so this year I found her Selected and New Poems, and I’m reading one or two a night before bed. I absolutely love her. The poem you print here is one i haven’t seen yet. Trees save her. Trees save me, too! I’m going to have to copy this poem out! thanks so much for sharing it with us, Becca
Among the Trees
Among the Trees
Among the Trees
Among the Trees
I want to be planted
Among the Trees when I gone
When I leave this life
And go unto another life
I want to be planted
Among the Trees when I’m gone.