book discussion
topic: Sad, sad, sad
I thought that the little boy took way too much away from the tree. It resembles how mankind is using up way too much of Earth's natural resourses and throwing it away.
Actually, it resembles the relationship that parents have with their children. Parents give, children take. Look at it from the point of view of unconditional love.
I always felt that this was a story of the meaning of friendship and sacrifice. The boy, even as an old man, never really seems to appreciate what the tree has done for him but the tree does not care. It is happy to simply be in his company.
Here is an academic symposium on The Giving Tree with several different viewpoints written by Jews, Christians, Buddhists, etc. I found it quite fascinating. It's amazing that single work of children's literature has elicited such passion and discussion, either way:
http://www.firstthings.com/art...
Amy, I agree. I treasured this book with my kids when they were little and now joke with them about my future as a tree stump. I've had a few relatives who wouldn't do anything for anyone unless they could create a sense of obligation, so I'd much rather take a leaf from The Giving Tree's book of unconditional love.


