The Trees (G10) - Explanation

In the first stanza, the poetess describes the forest as the true home of trees, using them as a metaphor to illustrate human devastation of forests. Trees, essential for biodiversity, have been harvested to meet human needs and confined within homes. Now, the poetess narrates their symbolic return to the desolate forest, marking a pivotal moment for ecological rejuvenation. In their absence, birds couldn’t perch, insects couldn’t shelter, and sunlight couldn’t filter through the canopy. However, by the next morning, the forest will be filled with trees once again.

In the second stanza, Adrienne Rich vividly describes their determined struggle to free themselves from the confines of mankind. The poetess describes how the tree roots toil all night to free themselves from veranda cracks. Leaves strain against the glass to break the ceiling, while stems toughen from the continuous effort. Limited space causes branches to shrink. As trees slowly depart, they resemble discharged hospital patients, puzzled by their return to the forest.

In the third stanza, the poetess says she sits on the veranda with doors wide open, writing lengthy letters. She barely mentions the departure of trees to their empty forest. As night falls and the moon illuminates the sky, the fragrance of leaves and lichen drifts toward her. The aroma of trees reaches her like a voice echoing through a room.

Lastly, the poetess listens to the tree’s departing whispers as they leave the house. By the next day, they reach the empty forest, leaving the house silent and empty. Suddenly, the sound of breaking glass fills the air. The trees hurry, causing them to fall over one another. They sense the wind’s urgency as if it’s eager to reunite with them. The Trees being tall, shatter the moon into fragments, resembling a crown above the head of the oak trees.