The last story is inspired by the poem "The Tree..." by Douglas Malloch. It contrasts the lives of those who face no challenges with those who overcome adversity.
The protagonist, Elara, observes a "scrubby" tree that never had to fight for resources, symbolizing her brother Kael who inherited an easy life. Both, lacking struggle, failed to reach their full potential.
In contrast, Elara herself battles a "windswept hill" for her harvest, and this struggle strengthens her. She finds wisdom in the ancient, scarred trees of the forest, recognizing that hardship is the "common law of life" and makes one stronger, like "good timbers". The story concludes with Elara embracing her struggles, knowing they will lead to her growth.
Sources
The Tree Canvas (AP)
Definition: High-quality fine art prints created using materials and processes engineered for museum-level preservation and resistance to aging.
Material Type: Giclée or fine art inkjet prints, often produced in limited editions.
Quality: Printed with pigment-based archival inks on acid-free, lignin-free paper—frequently 100% cotton rag or similar museum-grade paper. Offers exceptional image stability, rich color depth, and superior resistance to fading and yellowing. Preferred by professional artists, collectors, galleries, and institutions for long-term display and investment.