Buried Beneath the Oak Tree, Coda Barger

Buried Beneath the Oak Tree

Coda Barger

I would like to die in the woods Where sound cannot reach my bones Where my flesh is consumed by the Earth Because the grass has always been my first love

I would like to rest in the woods Where the rushing water takes me away Where dandelions bloom and fairies play Because the flowers have always felt like home

I would like to lie in the woods Where monarchs rest their orange wings Where shadows dance among the trees Because the butterflies are gentle—unlike other things

The empty farmland is where I’ll rest The blue jays will sing my lament The woodpecker will be the drums The worms will hum a quiet tune While I lay within my tomb

She shall be my eternal resting place Where chipmunks and foxes run Where I’ll always be free Because I’d rather be buried Beneath the big oak tree.