tree

The tree is symbol rich. The tree of life, the tree of knowledge, the tree of human kindness and connection, the list goes on. Think of something good and there is probably a tree that symbolizes that thing. We have a complicated relationship with trees. I’ve never understood the appeal of The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. It’s a sad tale about unconditional sacrifice for an ungrateful human that’s read to children. It feels like it’s designed to be read by angry parents punishing their offspring for not saying thank you enough. And speaking of chopping down trees, there’s Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard. It heralded a revolution. And, of course, The Lorax by Dr. Seuss. I think those things were trees. Hard to tell. There are other unspeakable uses: the hangings, lynchings, and crucifixions. We also build with trees, burn trees for warmth, and climb trees just for fun. But there is this one tree that stands as a sentry to some other place, a place of confinement.  This tree creates its own atmosphere. This tree is aware of you. Once you pass it, you are not where you were.