The Fruits of Our Labour

A Poem by Tom Shaw

Feb 13, 2024

Text within this block will maintain its original spacing when published

In the park one autumn day,
when the beaten path could no longer contain me,
tackling the bracken upon the wooded bank,
I sought to learn what this world could be,
should we be at home with the Earth.

At the top, a beauty stood still
that only engages those who look for it.
For there was an orchard, left to time
and flourishing fine with no human to babysit,
feeling at home with the Earth.

With hearts of generosity and love,
a tree offered one of its fruits.
I accepted, and within one bite
I knew a world, not of concrete or suits,
but one where I am at home with the Earth.

While I could have stayed forever,
surviving on the orchard’s labour,
the branches gestured to take a seed
that blossoms for a lonely neighbour,
so they can be at home with the Earth.

As they knew best, I made my way
through the thorns to return to tarmac.
For while I find no comfort here,
I know it only takes one crack
to plant a tree that becomes a home.

The Fruits of Our Labour - by Tom Shaw

Music: UNIVERSFIELD - Peaceful Place

Artwork made with Canva and Runway using AI.

“The Fruits of Our Labour” was originally published via Over to the Youth in 2023. This version is taken from my book, “Born Anew and Other Poems”. Check out more about the book below:

Born Anew and Other Poems

I love nature walks - and I love exploring. Me unintentionally finding an not-well-kept orchard while on one of these walks is very much a true story. If anyone is walking up the Porter Brook in Sheffield and fancies tackling the bracken, that experience can be yours too!

The idea to write a poem based on what it meant to me came as I was walking back. It came just at the time I was really understanding that part of my reason for being here is to help people connect with nature - and in doing so, their most authentic selves. Beyond that, I hope those people can inspire others too, planting seeds in their life that can blossom into fruitful apple trees.

If you enjoyed this poem, you can find a high-quality framed print of it over on my Shop.