Trees
Trees
are for birds.
Trees
are for children.
Trees
are to make tree houses in.
Trees
are to swing swings on.
Trees
are for the wind to blow through.
Trees
are to hide behind in ‘Hide and Seek.’
Trees
are to have tea parties under.
Trees
are for kites to get caught in.
Trees
are to make cool shade in summer.
Trees
are to make no shade in winter.
Trees
are for apples to grow on, and pears;
Trees
are to chop down and call, “TIMBER-R-R!”
Trees
make mothers say,
“What
a lovely picture to paint!”
Trees
make fathers say,
“What
a lot of leaves to rake this fall!”
(SHIRLEY
BAUER)
Short Summary
The poem ‘Trees’ written by Shirley Bauer, celebrates the various roles and experiences associated with trees. It highlights the diverse ways in which trees contribute to different aspects of life, particularly for birds and children. From being a source of play and imagination, such as making tree houses, swinging on swings, and playing hide and seek, to providing shelter, shade, and a backdrop for tea parties, the poem captures the multifaceted relationship between trees and people. It also acknowledges the seasonal changes, from providing cool shade in summer to shedding leaves in winter. Additionally, the poem playfully notes the practical aspects of trees, such as bearing fruit like apples and pears, but also acknowledges the reality of trees being chopped down. The concluding lines humorously reflect the differing perspectives of mothers, who appreciate the beauty of trees, and fathers, who anticipate the task of raking leaves in the fall. Overall, the poem celebrates the versatility and significance of trees in our lives.