An analysis for the willow and the ginkgo poem?

Answer 1

In the first stanza the poet compares the two trees (the willow and the ginkgo) to two works of art. The first, to which the willow is compared, is a fine-lined etching, a model for beautiful designs and pictures. The second, to which the ginkgo is compared, is a clumsy looking painting whose artist does not think much of it.

In the second stanza the two trees are compared to two types of music. The willow is compared to Opera music coming from a soprano singing beautifully. However, the ginkgo is compared to a chorus singing which may sound unharmonious.

In the third stanza the willow's touch is compared to the smoothness of a velvet-nosed calf. It is so soft and smooth. But the ginkgo's feel is compared to the wrinkles and thickness of an old bull's skin. The willows body and branches are so soft, smooth and slender as a velvet-nosed calf and silk threads. But the willows' body and branches are thick, coarse as an old bull's skin or rough wool.

In the fourth stanza the poet says the willow has beautiful branches and leaves that are green, gold and fair. The willow grows elegantly beside rivers and nothing happens to them as they dip into the water like a beautiful princess protected by guards.

On the other hand, in stanza 5 the poet says that the ginkgo grows in the wrong place; in cities where concrete is abundant; it forces its way out of concrete in urban areas. Although the ginkgo is strong and can grow well, but it doesn't belong where it usually grows and it doesn't fit with its surroundings; it doesn't have this harmony that the willow tree enjoys.

In the last stanza the poet announces that he really enjoys watching the willow, whereas he sympathizes with the ginkgo which is clumsy looking, coarse and thick, and doesn't fit where it grows.

Answer 2

"The Willow and The Ginkgo" by Eve Merriam contrasts the resilient nature of the willow tree with the steadfastness of the ginkgo tree. The willow, depicted as flexible and adapting to change, represents fluidity and emotion, while the ginkgo, with its fan-shaped leaves, symbolizes strength and stability. The poem ultimately celebrates the beauty of diversity and the different ways in which individuals navigate life's challenges.