On killing a tree

             It takes much  time to kill a tree,

              not a simpl jib of the knife 

               will do it. It has grown

                slowly consuming the earth,

                 Rising out of it, feeding 

                  Upon its crust, absorbing 

                   Years of sunlight, air, water,

                   And out of its leprous hide 

                    Sprouting leaves.

                     So hack and chop 

                      But this alone wont do it.

                       Not so much pain will do it.

                        The bleeding bark will heal

                        And from close to the ground 

                        Will rise curled green twigs, 

                        Miniature boughs

                        Which if unchecked will expand again 

                        To former size.