Poem: “Tree of Heaven”

By Naomi Long Madgett

I will live.

The ax’s angry edge against my

trunk

cannot deny me. Though I thunder

down

to lie prostrate among exalted

grasses

that do not mourn me,

I will rise.

I will grow:

Persistent roots deep-burrowed in

the earth

avenge my fall. Tentacles will shoot

out swiftly

in all directions, stubborn leaves

explode their force

into the sun.

I will thrive.

Curse of the orchard,

blemish of the land’s fair

countenance,

I have grown strong for strength

denied, for struggle

in hostile woods. I keep alive by

being troublesome,

indestructible,

stinkweed of truth.

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