the only gaze I have is my gaze
and yet this tree has no need of my approval,
no need to be aware of my appreciation
this tree exists, is, because it is and does
breathes and grows and lives and falls
it defies my appropriating gaze
under my gaze we give this tree a fancy name
Eucalyptus sideroxylon rosea
but have no idea what it calls itself
red iron bark, here from somewhere else
seedling to sapling, to street tree to mother tree
these trees are more than themselves
do not underestimate my sorrow and burning rage
when we destroy the ancient forests
these trees know more than just themselves
Eucalyptus sideroxylon rosea Red iron bark is closely related to Eucalyptus tricarpa which is confined to central Victoria. Eucalyptus sideroxylon rosea is a majestic specimen tree and easily distinguished by its dark red furrowed bark, its grey foliage and spectacular pink flowers in Spring.
© Sandra Renew, 2024
