Resilient and tenacious, pine trees deserve our
admiration. Despite their dark and gloomy reputation
they have been the subjects of artists for centuries,
particularly in China and Japan where they symbolize
wisdom and longevity, and are admired for their shapes.
Pine symbolism runs deep in many cultures from East to
West, from antiquity to the present, such as pine cone
staffs carried by the worshippers of Bacchus in the
classical world or pine trees used in the movement to
establish national parks in nineteenth-century North
America. The natural history of pine trees underlines
their ability to survive in difficult environments, and
their botany still puzzles and intrigues. Their resin
provided adhesives, water-proofers and medicines before
oil derivatives and modern pharmaceuticals were
developed. Their wood is ubiquitous, incorporated into
buildings, furniture and paper pulp. Pinecones fascinate
with their complex shapes, and provide pine nuts and
food for animals and humans. Pine trees have inspired
artists, writers, film-makers and photographers
throughout history, and as a consequence the sombre,
brooding atmosphere of pine woods are found in poetry,
movies, art and literature. A beautifully illustrated
book that reveals the many ways in which pine trees have
inspired and been utilized by humanity through history,
Pine provides a fascinating survey of these rugged,
aromatic trees that are found the world over.
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