Black Tree Black Tree (Southern, Ca Fires) Poem by C. Michelle Olson

Black Tree, Black Tree
What's happened to Thee
A black beauty tree I now do see
A shy answer, whispered tenderly,
'A dreadful fire hath swept over me
'Struck was I with a deadly force
that destroys all who would stand in its way
And I, Standing tall
Not a voice to scream
No legs to move
Just a stationary tree
A white burn did I receive
My beauty once displayed so intensely, shines stronger than before
The fire, though an enemy
Remained a friend, exposing my core
My beauty shines through my skin
Black beauty is my name
Embrace my presence
That now, your attention, doth claim'