Reflected in a nearby pond, this tree – with its warm greens and browns – undulates over the blue and white of the sky, reaching out with its arms in what looks like simple joy to me.
Can I really imagine this tree as human, experiencing joy and playfulness? Yes! I’m all for anthropomorphism – for assigning human characteristics to nonhuman entities, because we clearly know that this tree is alive, breathing, even sentient (maybe).
Are you fascinated (as I am) by the idea that trees are feeling, responsive, aware? Check out this article by Richard Schiffman: “Are Trees Sentient Beings? Certainly, Says German Forester."
From the article intro: “In his bestselling book, The Hidden Life of Trees, Peter Wohlleben argues that to save the world’s forests we must first recognize that trees are 'wonderful beings' with innate adaptability, intelligence, and the capacity to communicate with – and heal – other trees.”
Here, I see dancing, exultation, and pure delight.
10.31.22