A Poem Lovely as a Tree

Summary:

An exploration of Joyce Kilmer's most famous poem

Additional Credits and Funding:

Edited by Amanda Aronczyk and Jim Gates

Timely on:

April: April is poetry month; April 27 2007 is Arbor Day

Language:

English

Description:

"I think that I shall never see/ A poem lovely as a tree" is the first line of Joyce Kilmer's most famous poem, "Trees". It is read at arbor day celebrations; it has been set to music several times; and it is taught in elementary schools around the country. It is loved, but also mocked as a simplistic poem, lacking in substance--there is even an annual bad poetry contest named after him at Columbia University.

This piece explores 'Trees' through readings, music and interviews with Kilmer's grandson and others.

For a profile of Kilmer, please see "Joyce Kilmer and Trees", also on PRX: www.prx.org/pieces/8584

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