Levison Wood shares his emotional bond with a tree he planted decades ago
- Levison Wood planted a conker that grew into a 20-foot tall tree over three decades.
- He has walked the length of significant geographical locations while developing a deep connection to nature.
- Wood emphasizes the importance of trees and the stories they represent in his new book.
In a reflective narrative, Levison Wood, an esteemed explorer and travel writer, discusses a significant tree in his life that began from a beautiful conker planted by his father. The initial act of planting the conker marked the beginning of his connection to nature and trees. Growing up, Wood, who is now 42 years old, witnessed the transformation of this conker into a thriving 20-foot tall tree over a span of three decades, simultaneously experiencing remarkable adventures walking the length of the Nile, the Himalayas, and the Americas. As a child, Wood fostered a fascination for the natural world, inspired by literature like The Jungle Book, which painted vivid images of jungles teeming with wildlife. His youthful imagination was captivated by the exotic allure of rainforests populated by jaguars and parrots. This fascination, coupled with his explorative pursuits, has allowed Wood to deepen his understanding of nature throughout his career. The experiences and insights gained have not only shaped his identity but also highlighted the intrinsic value of trees and the stories they hold. During his explorations, Wood emphasizes the astonishing secrets of trees, serving as the focal point of his new book. His journey reflects a broader theme of interconnectedness with nature, urging readers to recognize the significance of plants like trees, which play a crucial role in the ecosystem. Wood's experiences stress the importance of such connections, echoing a yearning for harmony between humanity and nature. Ultimately, Wood's relationship with his tree symbolizes more than personal history; it embodies a universal appeal for a deeper understanding of the environment around us. It serves as a reminder of the contemplative moments we can experience when we allow ourselves to connect with nature. His narrative encourages individuals to reflect on their engagements with the natural world and consider the legacy they imprint on it, urging a collective responsibility to nurture and protect our environment.