Thursday 6 April 2017

Trees of Heaven

by Joan McNerney


Those are tough trees
growing in slums.

With no need of rich soil
or pruning, they rise
in abandoned lots.

These are trees that
survive rubbish, rodents,
noxious chemicals.

Not easily cut down, 
they stand against
gaunt tenements.
Climbing skyward,
delicate palm leaves
flourish flowering pods.

Trees of Heaven give
children glimpses of bright
emerald each morning.

Stars  play peek-a-boo
between their branches
through long nights.
Who has said a taste of
paradise is only for the rich?



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