At least 2 times a week I pass this tree,
and I have worried that it might be dead.
Well-shaped and large, it’s shown no greenery
when all around are plants a-bud in bed
or trellis-woven, fenced or blooming free.
I’ve longed to see it leafing out, instead
of rearing naked-limbed majestically.
Today I saw some sprigs of green emerge
that charm my eyes and make my smile surge.

(Ottava Rima)