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About this quote

What does it mean?
The quote invites the reader to admire a tree decorated with lights and frost, comparing it to vibrant flames and celestial bodies.
In plain terms
Look at the tree decorated with lights and frost that make it look like fire and stars.
What can you take from it?
Decorating a tree transforms it into something magical and bright.

Where it applies

  • holiday decorating
  • appreciating nature
  • poetry

Putting it to work

  • decorate for holidays
  • observe nature artfully

Questions to consider

  • What transforms a plain tree into something magical?
  • How do lights change our perception of nature?

Another view

The imagery is specific to winter and may not apply year-round.

More from Cecil Day Lewis

  1. It's hard to believe a spirit could die Of such generous glow

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  2. So feast your eyes now On mimic star and moon-cold bauble: Worlds may wither unseen, But the Christmas Tree is a tree of fable, A phoenix in evergreen

    Permalink to quote #4
  3. Is it birthday weather for you, dear soul? Is it fine your way

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