A curious text on trees
Jul. 5th, 2007 05:23 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
Found this in our collection:
Fred Hageneder. The Spirit of Trees: Science, Symbiosis, and Inspiration. (New York: Continuum, 2005).
The first part of the book is an interesting synthesis of scientific information and New Age theories-- connections of trees to star rhythms, for instance. The second half is descriptions of particular trees, first from a fairly straightforward biological/botanical perspective, then a summary of healing uses (modern and traditional) and of traditional myths about the tree, followed by 'inspiration'-- mystical suggestions about the tree and its uses.
The trees that are covered are: Birch, Rowan, Ash, Alder, Willow, Poplar, Aspen, Hawthorn, Maple, Elm, Beech, Oak, Holly, Hazel, Apple, Ivy, Blackthorn, Elder, Lime (Linden), Spruce, Larch, Pine, Juniper, and Yew.
There's a an interesting introduction to Botanical Basics, as well as some ecological information. It's also illustrated with photos and drawings, and contains a wealth of quotes about the tradition of the trees, but goes beyond the Celtic/Germanic year trees. I'm not entirely sure what to make of it, but for pagan/eco-feminist reference it looks helpful.
Fred Hageneder. The Spirit of Trees: Science, Symbiosis, and Inspiration. (New York: Continuum, 2005).
The first part of the book is an interesting synthesis of scientific information and New Age theories-- connections of trees to star rhythms, for instance. The second half is descriptions of particular trees, first from a fairly straightforward biological/botanical perspective, then a summary of healing uses (modern and traditional) and of traditional myths about the tree, followed by 'inspiration'-- mystical suggestions about the tree and its uses.
The trees that are covered are: Birch, Rowan, Ash, Alder, Willow, Poplar, Aspen, Hawthorn, Maple, Elm, Beech, Oak, Holly, Hazel, Apple, Ivy, Blackthorn, Elder, Lime (Linden), Spruce, Larch, Pine, Juniper, and Yew.
There's a an interesting introduction to Botanical Basics, as well as some ecological information. It's also illustrated with photos and drawings, and contains a wealth of quotes about the tradition of the trees, but goes beyond the Celtic/Germanic year trees. I'm not entirely sure what to make of it, but for pagan/eco-feminist reference it looks helpful.
no subject
Date: 2007-07-08 03:31 pm (UTC)There is a certain fascination about trees that is so hard to ignore. Aside from being mesmerizing to stare at, they have these magnificent healing capabilities, some have great dyeing capabilities, uses for house, making clothing and so much more. Near to my husband's home town, there is a place called the Keith House. Home to a PA governor, William Keith (I think that's his name), which has been made historical grounds, as he was governor in colonial America. There are some trees there that are as old as the property, and it's so amazing to see them and think on about all that these trees have seen in their lifetime...and all that they'll continue to see, possibly even beyond my own lifetime. There is a certain spirituality that they deserve. You've sparked my curiosity, and I think I'll be looking to the library (or a store...lol) for this book.