The poem describes the speaker gathering fallen leaves, and the noise of the leaves "rustling" is central to the imagery. The speaker emphasizes the abundance of the leaves and the sense of motion and activity they create:
* "The great noise of rustling all day long": This line establishes the loud and continuous sound of the leaves.
* "I'd rather be alone, though, with the leaves": This line suggests a connection between the speaker and the leaves, finding solace in their sound.
* "All afternoon I've been in the woods": The extended time spent gathering leaves emphasizes the prolonged exposure to the rustling sound.
The poem explores themes of solitude, nature, and the cycle of life. The rustling leaves represent the constant movement and change of the natural world, something that both attracts and consoles the speaker.