Stumped by a Tree?

In the car park of Calypso* pool

Which I walk though as a rule

A sight surreal caught my eye:

“But this is not a tree!” ** quoth I!

 

Its branches clambered on red brick

Reminiscent of Magritte …

But painted white, not in 3D

A winter emblem – quite leaf-free…

 

The early rush hour slowly passed;

Parents dropped off school kids fast;

Their voices had a lively ring

All eager for the chance to swim!

 

In lilac bushes down the street

The sound of chattering is sweet;

But is this bold artwork observed?

Its branches, though broad, tempt no bird!

(c) Poet in the woods 2026

* (In Boitsfort) For the curious: Calypso ('she who conceals') was a nymph who lived on the island of Ogygia, where, according to Homer's Odyssey, she detained Odysseus for seven years against his will.

** To paraphrase René Magritte: "This is not a pipe!"