So I agree more with the first interpretation of the Giving Tree presented in this article, although I may be biased as I wasn't a huge fan of the book to begin with, finding the enmeshment between the tree and the boy (obviously a metaphor for something more) slightly disturbing and unhealthy. I think a book about relationships and the ways in which we take and give should involve two fully autonomous beings. However, this is not the case as the tree is not on the boy's level. This book reminds me of the Velveteen Rabbit as the personified toys, like the tree, are simultaneously in love with and drained by their owners use of them. It's a sad, albeit very real and serious dynamic in human relationships which needs to be talked about, but never ever ever confused with exemplary interpersonal dynamics. Giving is not to be conflated with masochism, martyrdom, or unreasonable self sacrifice.
I really enjoyed this article. Having read the giving tree to Norman several times, it never really occured to me that there were so many different perspectives about a childrens book. I do think that one thing the article fails to mention is the environmental impressions if makes on the minds of kids. However, this book is a classic and kids should still read it.
So I agree more with the first interpretation of the Giving Tree presented in this article, although I may be biased as I wasn't a huge fan of the book to begin with, finding the enmeshment between the tree and the boy (obviously a metaphor for something more) slightly disturbing and unhealthy. I think a book about relationships and the ways in which we take and give should involve two fully autonomous beings. However, this is not the case as the tree is not on the boy's level. This book reminds me of the Velveteen Rabbit as the personified toys, like the tree, are simultaneously in love with and drained by their owners use of them. It's a sad, albeit very real and serious dynamic in human relationships which needs to be talked about, but never ever ever confused with exemplary interpersonal dynamics. Giving is not to be conflated with masochism, martyrdom, or unreasonable self sacrifice.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed this article. Having read the giving tree to Norman several times, it never really occured to me that there were so many different perspectives about a childrens book. I do think that one thing the article fails to mention is the environmental impressions if makes on the minds of kids. However, this book is a classic and kids should still read it.
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