Tales from the Tree

September Six Word Photo Story Challenge: “Comfort”

I have many stories to tell.

In the shadow of an ancient oak — a type that lives up to 1000 years old — it’s natural to wonder about the real or imagined stories it has to tell.

Nestled deep in the heart of the English countryside, halfway along an eight-mile walk known as The Tolkien Trail — in the Ribble Valley, Lancashire — this is a tree I’ve featured before, and many commented on its aura.

That’s because all the way from the verdant green canopy down to its mysterious, bulbous trunk, this majestic oak demands we pause and ask questions.

How old am I? What have I seen? Who has passed by? What secrets do I hold? What do I mean?

It’s well known that J.R.R Tolkien often stayed nearby, spending much of his time walking and writing, the landscape influencing his epic Middle Earth creation.

And I wondered if Tolkien had stood right here and found inspiration. Was this the Shire and the bulging tree trunk really a hobbit-hole?

If so, it makes sense.

Oak trees are part of English folklore, and the roots run deep: strong, wise, enduring, and a constant, reassuring presence that feels like home.

And that’s comforting.

“It was a hobbit-hole and that means comfort.”

The Hobbit, J.R.R Tolkien

Dedicated to H.R.H Queen Elizabeth 11 1926–2022

With thanks to these gifted six-word storytellers. Many asked about this special tree the first time around and inspired me to take another look. Vidya| Penny| David| Susan| JoAnn| Hollie| pockett |B.R.| Rhonda| Mary| Jason| Sanghita| Shereen.

Special thanks to Ellie Jacobson for the September SWPSC Prompt:

Falling into Comfort