Joyce Kilmer

Joyce Kilmer was an American poet of the early 20th century, best known for the widely anthologized poem "Trees". His lyric verse often celebrated nature and religious faith. Biography ↓More ↓

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Joyce Kilmer

Trees

(For Mrs. Henry Mills Alden) I think that I shall never see A poem lovely as a tree. A tree whose hungry mouth is prest Against the earth's sweet flowing breast; A tree that looks at God all day, And lifts her leafy arms to pray; A tree that may in Summer wear A nest of robins in her hair; Upon whose bosom snow has lain; Who intimately lives with rain. Poems are made by fools like me, But only God can make a tree.

Joyce Kilmer

Mid-ocean in War-time

(For My Mother) The fragile splendour of the level sea, The moon's serene and silver-veiled face, Make of this vessel an enchanted place Full of white mirth and golden sorcery. Now, for a time, shall careless laughter be Blended with song, to lend song sweeter grace, And the old stars, in their unending race, Shall heed and envy young humanity. And yet to-night, a hundred leagues away, These waters blush a strange and awful red. Before the moon, a cloud obscenely grey Rises from decks that crash with flying lead. And these stars smile their immemorial way On waves that shroud a thousand newly dead!

Biography

Joyce Kilmer was an American poet born in 1886 who died in battle during World War I in 1918. He worked as a journalist and lecturer before enlisting. His poetry is characterized by simple, traditional forms and often explores themes of nature, beauty, and religious faith, reflecting his devout Catholicism. He is best remembered for the poem "Trees", which gained widespread popularity and remains a staple of anthologies. His other collections include "Summer of Love" and "Main Street and Other Poems". Kilmer's work and his death as a soldier contributed to his legacy as a patriotic figure.

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