Trees of Heaven by Joan McNerney
Photo by Joanne Olivieri Trees of Heaven Those are tough trees growing in slums. With no need of rich soil or pruning, they rise in abandoned lots. These are trees that survive rubbish, rodents noxious chemicals. Not easily cut down, they stand against gaunt tenements. Climbing skyward, delicate palm leaves flourish flowering pods. Trees of Heaven give children glimpses of bright emerald each morning. Stars play peek-a-boo between their branches through long nights. Who has said a taste of paradise is only for the rich? BIO: Joan McNerney’s poetry has been included in numerous literary magazines such as Seven Circle Press, Dinner with the Muse, Moonlight Dreamers of Yellow Haze, Blueline, and Halcyon Days. Three Bright Hills Press Anthologies, several Poppy Road Review Journals, and numerous Kind of A Hurricane Press Publications have accepted her work. Her latest title is Having Lunch...