The Problem with Describing Trees

"It is good sometimes for poetry to disenchant us."


The whole point of writing is to use words in a manner to appeal to the reader, whether it may be in the case of presenting an argument or describing a white-picket fence. Poetry often uses words sparingly and gives them rhythm, which separates it from other styles of writing. Poetry also abuses metaphors and similes to present a theme in a way that makes it sound flowery and melodic.  In this way, poetry can make the reader appreciate a flaming pile of compost easier than a narrative within a novel.

What Hass is trying to point out in his poem, though, is that we don't always need to attempt to beautify what we're describing, Often, especially in nature, what we are describing is already so clear and magnificent that it doesn't need an explanation.

Stephanie Meyer's vampires glitter, trees do not.
Hugh Jackman dances, not a tree.

Trees don't do these actions, but we romanticize what they really do to appeal to the reader. A tree also doesn't speak and most people don't have conversations with them (at least those who are considered "normal" by society's standards). "Dance with me, dancer," if directed towards the tree, just sounds silly. Furthermore  having the tree respond, "Oh, I will," sounds even more absurd.