Trees are seen as majestic creatures that evoke both comfort and protection. In works of fiction, they might provide words of wisdom or strength. In reality, trees might be a symbol of history or solace. No matter where you look, fact or fiction, trees have an important part of our lives.
In the world of J.R.R. Tolkien, specifically Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, creatures called Ents (or “shepherds of the trees”) protect forests from orcs and other dangerous creatures. Ents take on a tree-like form, resembling those they protect. In The Two Towers, Saruman destroys hundreds of trees the Ents have known for years. Angry and seeking vengeance for those they swore to protect, the Ents take their last march to destroy Isengard (which ends Saruman’s reign of power).
Other works of fiction use trees to evoke wisdom, protection and strength. For example, in Disney’s Pocahontas the main character seeks advice from a tree named Grandmother Willow. In addition, in the Legend of Zelda series, the Great Deku Tree serves as guardian of the earth.
But it’s not just Lord of the Rings, Pocahontas or Legend of Zelda where trees have immense symbolism. Like Ents in Middle Earth, the Parke Company employees have duties to care for trees around Middle Tennessee. Though they don’t take on a tree-like form, the Parke Company is certainly shepherd of the trees and they approach their craft in a holistic manner.
In addition, everyday trees like those in a backyard of Green Hills or a park in Brentwood can symbolize a piece of history — everything from a historical landmark to a couple sharing their first kiss.
So if you spend any time outside or even go watch Tolkien’s new film adaptation, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug this holiday season, don’t forget to look out for any trees and what they might mean. You never know what emotions they are supposed to evoke.