Alliterative verse uses alliteration to structure the lines of a poem. This ancient form was once used to compose oral poetry in Old English and other related languages. Some scholars say it is undergoing a modern revival (D.W. Wise, University of Arizona).
The poems featured in Spruce took aim with an inky spear are written in a modified alliterative metre adapted to modern English. A brief guide to the mechanics of this form is included in the intro to the book.
Likewise, an appendix of Botanical notes provides further information on the cultural symbols and botanical characteristics relevant to each featured tree species.
Four of the poems were published in Issue 5 of Forgotten Ground Regained: A Journal of Alliterative Verse (ed. P.D. Deane), and are reproduced here:
Judd Bemmels 