So let's talk about tree pipes, and then we'll get to the poem they inspired.
First off, no, they’re nothing like bagpipes. And I’m not talking about putting a little pipe of sorts into a maple tree to collect sap.
This is something stranger.
Here's the story. . . We had already lived on our little farm for 12 years, and you’d think by that time there would be no surprises when we walked in the woods.
But you’d be wrong.
What's this have to do with tree pipes?
Glad you asked.
One day we varied from our usual path and came across this sight:
Did you notice the unusual ornament in the tree trunk?
Let’s look closer. . .
Yep, there’s a pipe embedded in that tree.
So guess that makes it a tree pipe!
And since there are actually several sections of pipe, make that tree pipes!
We have no idea how it got there. It had obviously been there a long time considering the way the tree had grown around it.
What’s strange is how the pipe doesn’t look like it was stuck into the tree, but that somehow it was up against the tree and the tree just grew around it.
Now for the Poem Part!
With apologies to Joyce Kilmer, this sight inspired (and I use that term loosely) a different rendition of the poem “Trees” . . .
I never thought that I should see,
A pipe stuck way up in a tree.
A tree that has a pipe that’s prest
Against the bark upon it’s chest;
A tree that looks a trifle odd,
To have a pipe stuck in its bod;
A tree that in all seasons dresses
With metal among its leafy tresses.
Upon whose bosom rests a pipe;
But yet I’ve never heard it gripe.
Yep, such poems are made by fools like me,
Wondering how a pipe got in a tree.
Now quit rolling your eyes and remember, humor and poetry can both be great for stress relief, thus helping you gain inner peace and get your Zen on. Seriously!
Okay, okay, I'd reckon I’d better quit while I’m not ahead! :-)
So that's it for now!
