The Broken Tree

A lonely old tree With a scream stuck in its bark, Hues of anguish display, Beaten in the dark. Leaves whisper forgotten secrets, Roots tangled in dreams, The moon casts a pallor, Silencing the beams.

While other trees sway In spring joy’s embrace, This broken one stands, Cast aside in disgrace. Yet in its wild scars Lies the history of storms, A true testament alive— A perennial form.

• Richard Huelsenbeck