Julián's Novel

Julián's novel is symbolic of his life. Throughout The Private Lives of Trees, Julián obsesses over his manuscript. Although he has completed it, he regrets having written it. It took him years to write, and began as a lengthy tome. However, he severely edited it, and remains unsatisfied with it, perpetually telling himself he should have chosen an alternate premise. His regard for his novel mirrors and enacts his regard for his life.

"The Private Lives of Trees"

"The Private Lives of Trees," the story series Julián tells Daniela, is symbolic of imagination. Julián first starts inventing the stories as a way to help Daniela fall asleep. However, the stories also help the characters to transcend their concerns, fears, or anxieties in the present. In this way, the author conveys the transformative and transporting power of imagination and story.

Bonsai