3 Must-Read Joyce Kilmer Poems

Joyce Kilmer was an American poet who is best remembered for his collection Trees and Other Poems, published in 1914. The title poem is certainly his most famous. This poem and his others celebrated nature and his faith. Kilmer was killed in action in World War I.

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Trees

Kilmer’s ‘Trees’ marvels at nature’s beauty, declaring trees as divine art surpassing human creation, in simple yet profound couplets.

Joyce Kilmer’s 'Trees' reveals his unwavering faith and Romantic ideals, which infuse the poem with sincerity and reverence. His humility as a poet contrasts human creativity with divine craftsmanship, showcasing his deep connection to both spirituality and nature.

I think that I shall never see

A poem lovely as a tree.

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Summer of Love

‘Summer of Love’ by Joyce Kilmer juxtaposes nature’s beauty with enduring love, celebrating the lasting joy of affection.

This poem by Joyce Kilmer is a representation of some aspects of his poetry. Kilmer is known for his romantic and traditional style, often celebrating the beauty of nature and the enduring themes of love and spirituality. This poem exemplifies those themes, with its focus on the beauty of June and the symbolism of love's enduring magic. However, it's essential to note that Kilmer's body of work includes a variety of poems covering different themes and styles. Some of his poems delve into religious and spiritual topics, while others explore the impact of war and conflict.

June lavishes sweet-scented loveliness

And sprinkles sunfilled wine on everything;

The very leaves grow drunk with bliss and sing

And every breeze becomes a soft caress.

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Rouge Bouquet

Written in the aftermath of a particularly bloody bombardment in World War One, ‘Rouge Bouquet’ is a lament to those who have died in the attack as well as a farewell to them. The poet’s proximity to the attack and those killed means that the poem is filled with raw emotion.

This is a good example of Kilmer's poetry and perhaps the poem that he is most remembered for. The poem details his personal experiences of war and how it made him feel. The poem was reprinted many times and even recited at the poet's funeral, highlighting the importance that it had in his life.

In a wood they call the Rouge Bouquet

There is a new-made grave today,

Built by never a spade nor pick,

Yet covered with earth ten meters thick.

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3 Must-Read Joyce Kilmer Poems

Trees

Summer of Love

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