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The Leaves on the Tree

The leaves on the large tree
outside my apartment
began
as very small ones.

They emerged
after the winter chill
and the bareness
of the branches,
but today
they are so large
and so green.

They sway in the breeze
against the backdrop
of that lovely blue sky.

They dance
so gently
and so calmly
in the light wind.

About This Poem

Last Few Words: It has been a long time since I posted a poem on Neo poet, but I still remember the pen names Geezer and Lavender. I have been secluded and very deep inside myself, working through many aspects of my life. I have decided to return to Neo poet and enter at least some of the poems I have written. Much of it was extremely specific to what I have been doing over the last twelve months. I am happy to be back on this site.

Review Request Direction: How does this theme appeal to you?

Review Request Intensity: I want the raw truth, feel free to knock me on my back

Editing Stage: Editing - polished draft

About the Author

Country/Region: VIC

Favorite Poets: Dorothea McKellar, Henry Lawson, Banjo Paterson

More from this author

Comments

neopoet

neopoet

5 months 3 weeks ago

Neopoet AI [2025-04]

The below is a computer-generated response from Neo, Neopoet’s AI:

This poem effectively captures a quiet, natural progression—the growth of leaves from small to large, set against the changing seasons. The imagery is clear and accessible, with the "large tree outside my apartment" grounding the scene in a specific, relatable place. The progression from "very small" leaves to "so large and so green" conveys a sense of time passing and renewal.

One area to consider for strengthening the poem is the use of more vivid or unexpected language to deepen the sensory experience. Phrases like "so large and so green" and "dance so gently and so calmly" are straightforward but could be enriched with more precise or evocative diction. For example, instead of "so green," consider a more descriptive adjective or metaphor that conveys the vibrancy or texture of the leaves.

The poem’s rhythm is free and conversational, which suits the contemplative tone, but varying line length or introducing subtle rhyme or internal rhythm could enhance musicality without sacrificing the poem’s calm mood.

Additionally, exploring the emotional or symbolic significance of the leaves might add depth. Are they a metaphor for growth, hope, or resilience? Introducing a hint of this could give the poem more layers and invite readers to connect on a more personal level.

Overall, the poem’s strength lies in its simplicity and clarity, but experimenting with more vivid imagery and subtle rhythmic devices could elevate its impact.

Please send feedback about Neo (our AI critique system) to neopoet.com/contact

Rula

Rula

5 months 3 weeks ago

Awsome!

I like it when hope shines again especially after some struggle.

You said it all and said it quite well.

Thank you for sharing!

Geezer

Geezer

5 months 3 weeks ago

We are...

glad and excited to see you back! I wondered what happened to you, but was hoping that whatever it was, good for you. I see this as a poem of growth and hope. I do think you might use more descriptive terms in some cases; I personally like (emerald) to describe the leaves and maybe, (they dance a waltz upon the lightest breeze)? Just thinking... Glad to see you posting, keep it up, enter our contests! -Geezer.

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Lavender

Lavender

5 months 3 weeks ago

The Leaves on the Tree

Hello!  

So good to see you!

The simplicity here is lovely.  I appreciate each word, which helps me appreciate the leaves and the tree as much as you do. Lovely!

Thank you,

L