Vine

The clinging vine too long did entwine the strength of the tree

Fixed on its growth it was loath to set its benefactor free

Time past, a foliage so vast supported by wooded divinity

To its own needs addicted, the damage inflicted it did not see

Bent branches held on, through dark and dawn, with no objection

With frost vine's leaves were lost, deciding to release its protection

Fallen strangling ropes loosened their gropes, in predilection

Sacrifice made, knowing too much shade for the tree is an infection

Reviews

[RomaJ]

This poem is fitting for these invasive vines, where I'm from... it's called "chain of love" or "sweetheart hoya" I didn't really google it, but it is common where I live. The leaves are heart shaped. I think some people chew it or there's medicinal properties in it, but they are invasive species and it kills the trees. Once it wraps itself around the tree, it chokes the life out of it. I can't imagine a love like this...being choked to death by something named "sweetheart " or "chain of love" those vines is certain death for a tree, unless, humans intervenes. Those leaves clings to houses, anywhere it can cling to, it will cling. I'm so tired of having to cut it. Stunning metaphor, as always Soren.
Roma

[Soren]

Thank you Roma for your read and interpretation. Yes it grows where I live in both Florida and Brazil. I have know such relationships with people and they work just the same. One in total dependency saping the strength of the other.

[RomaJ]

That's heartbreaking that this kind of fatal attraction exist in humans. I've watched way too many True Crime stories, in the past. and each one is just as tragic. And these cases are usually called "crimes of passion" which just feels wrong and disrespectful to the victims. Who are usually strangled to death by someone, they onced loved and trusted. It is such a betrayal. I hope people see the redflags and not fall victim to this kind of fatalism

[Chris Shaw]

A strong metaphor here Soren. I have seen trees strangled by parasitic ivy. The dead tree covered in it. People can be like that too. Again, it’s all a question of balance. Without it a great deal of unhappiness can occur. In your poem, the stranglehold was released, the sacrifice made, the tree lived. Great visuals here and a message too. Have a lovely Thursday.

Chris

[Soren]

Thank you so much Chris for your read of this piece and your understanding of it. Some relationships are destructive of one or the other and for the good of both a sacrifice has to be made.

[Chris Shaw]

So true Soren. Not an easy choice, but the kindest in the long term.