Memories of Joyce Kilmer
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Since that day Mr Kilmer and his work have held a special place in my heart. He was born December 6, 1886 and passed away at war on July 30, 1918.
This being his birthday, I view it personally appropriate to remember him and his work.
Over the years I have taken a moment to read Trees in those times I am collecting my thoughts and waxing sentimental and/or philosophical.
The poignancy relevant to me personally is the tragedy which was the fact that Joyce Kilmer was killed while fighting in World War I.
He was a prolific poet and worked as a journalist, literary critic, editor, and lecturer.
He was a devoutly religious family man with a wife and five kids.
Sadly, much of his work goes unknown by many these days. I consider myself lucky to be chosen by Mrs Robinson to read his poem Trees that day in seventh grade English.
TreesSee Also:
I think that I shall never see
A poem lovely as a tree.
A tree whose hungry mouth is prest
Against the sweet earth's 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
Arbor Day 2020