A Single Tree

          A Single Tree

A single tree among the untouched green

Of others sacrifices arms of leaves;

A crucifixion set in autumn’s scene

Conflated with the fire of yellow, cleaves

To God-like death in slow motion.

A golden cross, as high as resurrection,

Surmounts a dome, brighter than the ocean

When first conceived, confirming rejection,

Above the onion shape, of all the lies

And spring-like perfidy of life.  The church

Upholds bright hope and seeks to authorize

Both crocus and the falling leaves of birch.

  Is this botanic opposite from Christ?

    Does he want death and daffodil life spliced?