There are actually several types of hemlock. Hemlock trees are a very popular image in poetry and mythology, due to its importance in providing shelter and protection for animals, since its leaves are so dense. In addition to this, hemlock trees have flexible leaves that are difficult to break (Bradbury). The lifespan of the leaves on the tree is known as three years, which is when they at last drop to the ground. This poem specifically observes the "death" of these leaves, and how they further enrich the soil on which they fall.
Poison hemlock, on the other hand, is a plant that is extremely toxic to animals and humans. In fact, it is told that Socrates died from drinking a cup of poison hemlock. So, perhaps the poem used this ambiguously named plant in order to bring these ideas of life and death together. It also adds more feelings of confusion and fear into the poem.
Poison hemlock, on the other hand, is a plant that is extremely toxic to animals and humans. In fact, it is told that Socrates died from drinking a cup of poison hemlock. So, perhaps the poem used this ambiguously named plant in order to bring these ideas of life and death together. It also adds more feelings of confusion and fear into the poem.