The Trees are coming into leaf
Like something almost being said;
— Philip Larkin, The Trees (1967)
Over the last few weeks, the view from my workshop window has been transformed by the annual miracle occurring on every twig. Leaf by leaf, the woods have become thick and lush with green. A few weeks ago, when the leaves were just emerging, I took just a few shots; that’s black cherry above.
This is spicebush (Lindera benzoin) and those leaves will be a treat the rest of the year. I like plucking one or two on walks in summer and fall, rubbing them between my fingers to release the refreshing lemony spicy scent.
And there’s no mistaking the shape of those little tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera) leaves.
The cherry leaves and hints of flowers in the first photo have found their voices now. Among other things, they’re reminding me that I have a couple cherry bowls to finish. Time to sharpen up.
If you’d like to read the rest of Philip Larkin’s poem, you can find it here, along with an animation of Larkin’s reading of the poem.
David Fisher, Carving Explorations 
Just think…. What a beautiful start to a wonderful future. Be it shade, part of a forest, food, nutrients to the soil as it decays or even a bowl. Simply amazing that it works in so many ways.
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Nice lesson in botany, fun thank you–and Thoreau-like.
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And also interesting that you quoted Larkin–
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Thanks nice post to wake up to this morning.
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The spectrum of greens of the emerging leaves of spring is my very favorite set of colors. New oak leaves might be at the very top of the list. Those colors speak to me of the season of growth, freshness and potential, before the heat of summer sets in and the hills turn gold.
Kalia
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This must be the best website ever.. thank you Mr. Fisher
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