Rocks were rocks. Objects of obstruction.

To be moved, broken, ridded.

Birds were birds, except quail

which we ate, and mourning dove

which Hank Williams taught us.

Weeds were weeds (we didn’t know

any other kind), except poke greens

and dock which we ate in spring. Otherwise, 

objects of obstruction. To be plucked, hoed.

Trees were trees, except maples protecting

the house, oaks with acorns, fruit trees

after which we salivated, & cedar trees 

we called Christmas trees. Objects of shade

in the yard, fencerows. Downed, 

to be burned ahead of seeding 

tobacco beds, killing weed seed.  

Life, a list of vocabulary to learn.