Intermezzo

This intermezzo works with trees to understand and connect to biological hierarchies, tree flourishing, the Mother tree, and the wood wide web. Taxonomically, trees in biology hold powerful lineages that pre-suppose an evolution from simple organisms to complex organisms. This can mask the adaptability found in nature when simplistic interpretations have the power to shape narratives and assumptions that can influence whether particular organisms that appear less complex are less worthy of further study. Conversely, hierarchical thinking is not part of Indigenous lifeworlds, which are reciprocal, caring, and hopeful, leading to diverse and inter-species respect and partnerships that flatten human-centric hierarchies, providing a view that life is interconnected and co-dependent. Tree survival is intrinsically linked to human survival; trees, particularly those that are ancient, require protection from human-induced issues. To help this survival, it is important to understand the impact of symbiont relationality, which is demonstrated between trees and fungi, both of which are key elements of the Wood Wide Web. These symbiotic relationships benefit both the fungi and the tree and help preserve tree life.