Joe Weil - 'Painting the Christmas Trees'

The speaker shares their experience of growing up working class and working in a Christmas tree factory, which inspired them to become a union activist. They present a poem, 'Painting the Christmas Trees,' reflecting on the harsh conditions and societal issues faced by workers. The poem highlights themes of despair, joy, and the human spirit amidst adversity. The speaker concludes by discussing the inspiration behind their writing and the lack of similar poems in literary magazines.

What experiences does the speaker describe in relation to their job in the factory?

In what ways does the speaker express their feelings about the job and the people they worked with?

How does the speaker relate their work environment to the broader themes of joy and suffering?

What imagery is used to describe the fake Christmas trees and their production?

What does the speaker imply about the impact of their factory job on their health?