avatarE. Katherine Kottaras

Summary

A young girl mourns the loss of an ash tree that has been a significant part of her life and questions the change brought by its removal.

Abstract

The article "Farewell, Sweet Ash" is a poignant reflection on the emotional impact of cutting down a beloved tree. Through the eyes of a young girl, we witness the deep connection she has formed with the ash tree from her childhood days. She has grown up with the tree, using it as a playground and a natural classroom, observing the wildlife it supported. The sudden change, marked by the sound of chainsaws and the crashing fall of the tree, leaves her heartbroken and concerned about the displacement of the creatures that called it home. Despite her father's attempt to offer a positive perspective by pointing out the newly visible sky, she grapples with her discomfort over the change, finding solace in a single branch from the felled tree. The story closes with her subdued acceptance, looking forward to the possibility of what "tomorrow" might bring.

Opinions

  • The author conveys a sense of loss and nostalgia for the tree, which represents more than just a plant but a companion in the girl's growth and learning.
  • There is a clear tension between the necessity of change and the emotional resistance to it, as evidenced by the girl's reaction to the tree's removal.
  • The girl's father introduces a contrasting perspective, focusing on the new opportunities that may arise from the tree's absence, such as the expanded view of the sky.
  • The writer seems to suggest that even in the face of unwelcome change, there is a possibility for hope and adaptation, as symbolized by the girl's eventual return to bed with a branch, signifying a reluctant acceptance and willingness to move forward.

Farewell, Sweet Ash

an ode to our felled tree

drawing by writer

she cries for the dying ash the only tree she’s known bare soles on knotted roots

her first school days squirrels, hummingbirds, ravens she climbed the trunk — they followed

chainsaws, ropes thunderous plummets “where will they go?”

“I don’t like change.” but papa says, “we can see sky now.”

“that’s true, I guess.” she returns to bed, one cut branch in hand

“maybe tomorrow.”

farewell, sweet ash. photo by writer.
Paper Poetry
Poetry
Poem
Trees
Grief
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