In literature, two types of meanings can be distinguished in any given work. Total meaning expresses the experience the poem communicates- that can be communicated in no other way- and prose meaning, which can be separated from the poem. The latter meaning is not to be mistaken for the essence of the poem, however, evident in A. E. Housman’s “Loveliest of Trees.” At first glance, this poem can be simply dubbed a descriptive work about nature, but if read carefully an entirely new meaning becomes present. The author presents a philosophy through the adoration of trees, preaching that one should appreciate and treasure beautiful in all aspects of life. However, the metaphor between the snow and cherry blossoms implies that because each season is beautiful for a unique reason, so is each person on earth. If one is to admire the beauty in life and nature, they must also admire the beauty in their peers and recognize the good qualities above the not-so-favorable qualities. By comparing the total meaning of the poem with the prose meaning, one can fully understand the author’s theme in writing the poem.  PokemonaDeChroma via Compfight