The original Giving Tree cover on wikepedia.org

One of my favorite books of all time is Shel Silverstein’s The Giving Tree. This children’s book, originally published in 1964, remains a staple in the early-years reading lists and has been very influential to millions of readers around the globe.

Shel Silverstein on americanpoems.com

On the surface, the story is a sad and simple one. But upon further examination, especially with adult eyes, the meaning becomes much more profound and, some would argue, disturbing. Nevertheless, the power of the story is everlasting.

The Clearing by S. Josephine Weaver on zatista.com

Trees are indeed giving and perhaps we take them very much for granted at times. They are like silent partners in our lives, always standing nearby watching over us, providing materials required for everyday living, and indeed, helping maintain the health of the planet.

Tree Lane by Corey Ulrich on zatista.com

Beyond the fruits and nuts that they contribute to our diets, they give us some of the raw materials for paper, building materials, and many cellulose-based products.  They are one of our few renewable resources, and with smart forest management, the cycle of give and take can remain equitable and sustainable.

Where Evening Begins 1 by Konnie Kim on zatista.com

Given their prominence in our lives, it’s no surprise that trees were chosen to be and remain one of the primary symbols of the holiday season, subject of songs and greeting cards, and assigned an honored place in our homes and year-end celebrations. They remind us that this is a time of year about both giving and receiving.

Alone by Doug Hockman on zatista.com

The aesthetic nature of trees cannot be denied. As specimens in a landscape, they are magnificent. A quick search of Zatista‘s offerings proves their popularity with artists of all media. They give us a yearly four-season show, with each different aspect more beautiful than the next. We enjoy their company in any form because they pass the time with us, and let us know that all is well.

Brian Sylvester is a guest blogger on WallSpin, and an artist on Zatista.

Related articles

• It’s About Time (zatista.com)
• Shel Silverstein book released 12 years after his death (today.msnbc.msn.com)
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• The Little Boy and the Old Man – Shel Silverstein (thehenrybrothers.wordpress.com)