Poem Analysis - A Tree Song

An Ode to England's Enduring Strength

Rudyard Kipling's "A Tree Song" is a vibrant celebration of England's connection to its ancient trees, particularly the oak, ash, and thorn. The poem resonates with a joyful, almost pagan reverence for nature and its enduring presence in English history and culture. While the tone is primarily celebratory and patriotic, there's a subtle undercurrent of something deeper, a sense of ancient wisdom and enduring power vested in these trees. The poem moves from a straightforward declaration of their greatness to a more mystical invocation of their role in history and legend, culminating in a hopeful prophecy for England's future.

Whispers of Ancient History

While a deep dive into Kipling's background isn't strictly necessary to understand this poem, it's worth noting his strong sense of English identity and his frequent exploration of themes of nationhood and tradition. "A Tree Song" can be seen as reflecting this nationalistic sentiment, grounding English identity not just in human history but in the very land itself, represented by these trees. The references to figures like Aeneas and Brut, legendary founders of Britain, further root the trees in a mythical past.

The Enduring Power of Nature and Nationhood

One of the main themes is the enduring power of nature. The oak, ash, and thorn are depicted as existing long before recorded history, witnessing the rise and fall of civilizations. This is evident in the lines "Oak of the Clay lived many a day, Or ever AEneas began" and "Thorn of the Down saw New Troy Town (From which was London born)". The poem subtly suggests that nature's timeline dwarfs human concerns, providing a sense of perspective and grounding. Closely linked to this is the theme of national identity. The trees become symbols of England itself, their strength and longevity mirroring the hoped-for endurance of the nation. The refrain, "England shall bide ti11 Judgment Tide, By Oak, and Ash, and Thorn!" explicitly connects the country's fate to these trees. Furthermore, the poem subtly hints at a pagan connection to the land. The mention of "conjuring Summer in" and being "out in the woods all night" suggests a pre-Christian ritual, celebrating the return of warmth and life, with the trees as central figures in this ritual.

Symbolic Trees: Pillars of England

The oak, ash, and thorn themselves are powerful symbols. The oak traditionally represents strength, resilience, and longevity, mirroring the qualities associated with a strong nation. The ash, often associated with magic and connection to the otherworld in folklore, might symbolize the deeper, more mystical aspects of English identity and the connection to ancient traditions. The thorn, with its sharp defenses, could represent the protection and resilience needed to safeguard the nation. The poem also introduces other trees with specific purposes: the yew for bows, the alder for shoes, the beech for cups. This highlights the practical relationship between humans and nature, but it ultimately emphasizes that when these practical resources are exhausted, one must return to the foundational strength and resilience of the oak, ash, and thorn. The ellum, depicted as malicious, serves as a contrast, highlighting the positive qualities of the central trio. The image of the ellum waiting to drop limbs on unsuspecting people suggests a distrust of appearances and a warning against complacency.

A Lasting Legacy in Wood and Song

In conclusion, "A Tree Song" is a powerful and evocative poem that celebrates the enduring connection between England, its history, and the natural world. Through vivid imagery and a celebratory tone, Kipling elevates the oak, ash, and thorn to symbols of national identity, resilience, and a deep-rooted connection to ancient traditions. The poem's lasting significance lies in its ability to tap into a primal sense of belonging and its reminder that even in the face of change, the land and its ancient guardians remain a source of strength and inspiration. Is this poem simply a patriotic ode, or does it hint at a deeper, more mystical understanding of England's connection to the natural world, a connection that transcends political and social structures?