If I Were a Tree

If I were a little tree like you,

Instead of a child like me,

I would dig my roots in the good black earth

And toss my arms to the sea.

I would be twisted and small like you

For the winds to bend me low,

And drops of rain on my twigs would lie

Like silver beads in a row.

I would be like you as ever I could—

Green-spiked and needle-y,

If I were a little tree like you,

Instead of a child like me!