XXXIX.
This Poem has been recently introduced, as already stated (see P. ii.). The Yew tree does really blossom, and form fruit and seed like other trees, though we may not notice it.
The Poet now says, that his “random stroke” on the tree brings off
“Fruitful cloud and living smoke;”
Also that at the proper season
“Thy gloom is kindled at the tips.”
The fact is, that the flower is bright yellow in colour, but very minute; and when the tree is shaken, the pollen comes off like dust, and then the tree seems to resume its old gloom.
So the spirit of the Poet may brighten for a moment, and then return to its accustomed melancholy.
XL.