The Giving Tree Thesis

Words: 661
Pages: 3

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein explores the relationship between a boy and a tree as they share a meaningful bond through the boy’s childhood. As the boy would find enjoyment from the tree, he expressed his love for it which was reciprocated by the tree. As the boy grows older, he begins to take advantage of the tree by exploiting various parts of it. From this it is inferred that the boy’s relationship with the tree has become meaningless as he uses the tree for his own personal gain while the tree still feels a sense of fondness towards the boy.
Shel Silverstein’s portrayal of the boy and the tree’s relationship creates a toxic image for children that will be detrimental to their formation. This book presents a distorted view of life for children as everything was handed to the boy and did nothing in return to benefit the tree even though he used it till it was left to be a simple stump. The boy’s behavior allows kids to think that his actions are acceptable as the boy shows no remorse for his actions. This book will instill negative qualities within children as Silverstein’s portrayal of the characters teach greed, a horrible work ethic, and an awful treatment of people.
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The tree shows no restraint in giving the boy whatever he wishes, which leads children to believe that whatever they ask for will be given to them. Silverstein neglects to realize the effect his book has on children at this point in their life. His portrayal of the tree is somewhat positive as the tree showed its unconditional love for the boy, but it does more harm than good. The tree’s constant fulfillment of the boy's requests will teach children that they should not limit themselves as all their desires will be