I Climbed a Tree (poem) by John Herlihy on AuthorsDen

I Climbed a Tree
by John Herlihy → (All Poetry by John Herlihy)
Thursday, January 22, 2026 Rated "G" by the Author.

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I Climbed a Tree by John Herlihy As a boy, I climbed a tree, In the sky the world to see. Low branches reached down, Inviting me into its playground. Step by step I advanced aloft, My breath light, whistling soft. Passing a beehive, a bird nest, I climbed higher in my quest. I settled on the utmost limb, The horizon my eyes to skim. Light of the heavens all aglow, A breeze thru leaves did blow. Looking upon the earth below, Bubbling riverlets quietly flow. Sitting in a tree the first time, Below my feet the world mine. All alone, by myself, such bliss, Nothing in the world to miss. Seen this view before, no never? Can I stay up here gazing forever? At least until the sun goes down, Day in the waters of night drown. On high to better see moonlight, Shining down into the earth’s night. - - - - - Copyright © John Herlihy Monday 22 September 2025

Reviewed by Jms Bell

Reviewed on February 24, 2026

WHAT GREAT IMAGERY, HERE. OF COURSE, I MISSED THE THRILL OF THIS...I'M A CITY GAL. THROUGHLY ENJOYED, THANKS FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS.

Reviewed by Ronald Hull

Reviewed on January 23, 2026

You reminded me of my childhood. So many trees to conquer, so little time. These days I just admire trees that I have made it to old age in spite of the weather and the saw.

Especially like the line, "Day in the waters of night drown."

Ron

Reviewed by Odin odin@aflx.com

Reviewed on January 22, 2026

This was a perfect reflection that we can all relate to. There's probably no one who has not had the experience of climbing a tree in their youth. The eye and ear choices you made on the accent were spot on. Universal in their value for all of us. Thank you for posting.

Reviewed by Rebecca McKeehan

This poem takes me back to when I was a little tomboy and climbed trees. My favorites were the mimosas. Especially when they were in bloom. I can still smell their perfume.

Rebecca