Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Robert Frost's "Christmas Trees; A Christmas Circular Letter" is a narrative poem that explores themes of value, tradition, and the commercialization of nature through a dialogue between a countryman and a city stranger. The poem is set against the backdrop of a rural landscape in winter, where the serene and natural environment contrasts sharply with the encroaching commercial interests of the city.

The poem opens with a depiction of the city retreating into itself, leaving the countryside in its natural state. This separation highlights the difference between urban and rural life, setting the stage for the encounter between the speaker and the stranger. The stranger, who represents the city's influence, arrives at the speaker's yard, embodying both the physical presence of the city and its values. The imagery of "whirls of snow not come to lie" and "whirls of foliage not yet laid" creates a sense of movement and transition, capturing the changing seasons and the impending arrival of winter.

When the stranger arrives, he waits in the manner of country folk, showing a degree of respect for rural customs. This gesture prompts the speaker to approach him, and the stranger reveals his purpose: he is looking to buy Christmas trees. This request symbolizes the city's attempt to appropriate a piece of the countryside for its own festive celebrations. The speaker, who had never considered his trees as potential Christmas trees, is momentarily taken aback. The young fir balsams in his woods, which he describes as "like a place / Where houses all are churches and have spires," represent a sacred and unspoiled part of nature.

The speaker's initial reaction is one of resistance. He doubts he was tempted for even a moment to sell his trees, as doing so would leave the landscape "bare" and diminish its natural beauty. This sentiment reflects a deeper concern about the impact of commercialization on the environment and the intrinsic value of nature. The idea of selling the trees "off their feet to go in cars" is repugnant to him, as it would strip the land of its essence and leave it exposed to the harshness of winter.

Despite his reservations, the speaker entertains the stranger's request, perhaps out of politeness or curiosity. They survey the trees together, with the stranger making assessments and indicating his interest in particular trees. The interaction between the two men highlights the differing perspectives on value: the speaker sees the trees as an integral part of his landscape, while the stranger views them as commodities to be sold for profit.

The negotiation reaches a climax when the stranger offers thirty dollars for a thousand trees, a figure that shocks the speaker with its insignificance. The speaker's realization that thirty dollars amounts to three cents per tree underscores the absurdity of the offer and the disconnect between the true value of the trees and their market price. This moment crystallizes the speaker's decision not to sell, as he recognizes that the trees are worth more to him and his friends than any monetary sum.

The poem concludes with the speaker's reflection on the situation. He laments that he cannot send a Christmas tree in a letter, expressing a desire to share the beauty and spirit of his trees with his friends. This sentiment captures the essence of the poem: the true value of the trees lies not in their price, but in their ability to bring joy and meaning to others. The speaker's wish to send a tree as a symbol of goodwill and holiday cheer reinforces the idea that some things are beyond monetary value and are best appreciated in their natural state.

In terms of structure, the poem is written in blank verse, which allows Frost to maintain a conversational tone while exploring complex themes. The language is straightforward and evocative, painting vivid pictures of the rural landscape and the characters' interactions. Frost's use of dialogue and narrative techniques creates a dynamic and engaging poem that invites readers to reflect on the meaning of value, tradition, and the impact of commercialization on the natural world.

Overall, "Christmas Trees; A Christmas Circular Letter" is a poignant meditation on the intersection of nature and commerce, and the enduring significance of maintaining a connection to the natural world amidst the pressures of modern life. Through the simple yet profound exchange between the speaker and the stranger, Frost captures the tension between preserving the intrinsic value of nature and succumbing to the allure of profit, ultimately celebrating the spirit of generosity and the true meaning of Christmas.

Copyright (c) 2025 PoetryExplorer

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...