The Actual '73 Giving Tree Movie Spoken By Shel Silverstein

FARP reminiscing back to grade school at Holy Family in Parma, Ohio.

[@tamaqueen317]

I love how the tree always calls him boy even as he is an old man. It adds that sweet touch to this story.

[@teo5836]

Rulya Mórrigan Ard Mhacha how old are you now?

[@t_man7259]

@Rulya Mórrigan Ard MhachaI was always told that's the metaphor of the book itself

[@Western_Warriors_]

Fr

[@edwardgaines6561]

The tree has no eyeballs, so she can't actually see the old man.

[@MaoRatto]

@@edwardgaines6561 Also the tree compares him to her. Therefore it makes sense.

[@justnick200]

"and the tree was happy" and everyone cried

[@vatcalentine9378]

Senity your crying in your profile pic

[@justnick200]

Aly Segura​ first it's you're, second that's redundant

[@maggienachlin363]

Why is everyone crying? Because The last man is leaving the town.

[@thesidecourses9488]

Ikr

[@sharamusica]

Senity i cried so hard reading this story after 20 years

[@mylodelcarpio]

This story makes me cry every time I hear it because to me, my mom is the giving tree. She gives and gives and gives and never complains or asks for anything in return. She just wants to see me happy and shes always there for me. I love you so much mom , thank you for everything you’ve done. I wish I could one day repay you.

[@Ratchet2022]

The same with my mom. Cherish yours while she is still alive. Mine is gone.

[@calidreams5379]

Exactly what I thought but one psychologist says this book is horrible, that it enables narcissistic entitlement. And I totally got her point. Taking and taking until there’s only a stump. It’s better to give and receive apparently, everyone is capable of giving love, supporting and being available for someone in the present. In the future you may have more money but repayment with money is not necessary, one has everything they need inside of you to give now. But I still love the book, I’m sure the message is about unconditional love ❤️

[@csc7225]

​@@calidreams5379 The psychologist couldn't discern that the book was meant as a parable of life's journey and the mistakes and damage we can make if we aren't careful: a joyful childhood, yearning teenage years, often selfish young and middle adult years, finally culminating in a lonely old man filled with regret. It's meant as a gentle warning and a lesson for children, not as an example for your life. You're smarter than the psychologist.

[@DawgYa1]

same, this makes me cry every time

[@DawgYa1]

absolutely!! @@csc7225

[@americangirdolllover]

As a kid I loved this story. Looking back now, I see it's actually a very sad story about life and taking people's love for granted. I used to think it was such a happy story, because the tree just kept on giving and giving and it always said it was happy. But now I realize how as the boy grew up and became old, the woes of life hit him hard and he became selfish and cold. I don't even think he ever once said thank you. How depressing :(

[@deborahellison1525]

you are correct-I never liked this story-It is the story of takers and doormats.

[@Tendedolive]

Your right. The boy never did say thank you.

[@igorastakhov8444]

I don't find it depressing. Because the tree always ends up being happy. And it does it by giving something, by making sacrifices without asking anything in return. By loving. It's depressing from the perspective of the boy. Because he din't loved the tree. And he wasn't happy. So I think it depends on the way you look at this story. It's either a depressing story of a selfish boy. Or a calming and happy story of a loving tree.

[@ellamaraio1016]

Kemi Smith he never needed to say thank you. The tree could see that he was thankful

[@lukasknell8826]

Kemp Smith don't become that

[@williamhunt2819]

I worked in daycare for 11 years and I taught the school aged program. Part of my interview I was supposed to teach the children something. I was given 2 hours to prepare something and I remembered I was broke so I went home and was like what can I do and I only had this book The Giving Tree in my collection. So I took it in the kids all sat around to listen to the story. In the room was the owner of the daycare and the teacher of the class. I read the story and then I asked the kids what did you think the story was all about and 40 something kids all raised there hands and I chose some to give their versions of the story. Not once did I tell them no that's not what I think I told them that is what's great about books there is no right answer to what a book is about its what you feel the story is about. The owner took me back to the office and said you are a natural and I never seen them interact like that before. Long story short I got the job. Thank you Shel Silverstein for getting me the job.

[@brianhebert5841]

thank you for sharing your story, this is the true reason there is a comment section

[@michaelleeannspringer3247]

Wonderful story William. Very touching indeed. Glad you got the job. I'd be interested in knowing what some of the comments were from the children.

[@Haadi42]

And then were you happy?

[@dumilye3322]

*their

[@johnnyxmusic]

The Giving Book. ❤️📙

[@buddyclem7328]

This story must feel different at each stage of our lives. Now that I have already lived half of my life, and now that I'm a widower, I identify with the old tree stump, and the old man. So many times, I need nothing more than a sturdy, safe place to sit down, and even though the tree had given far too much, what was left of her was still everything that he needed. Similar to this story, from time to time, I will sit on our granite bench, in our beautiful cemetery, and talk to my late wife, until it's my turn to go, and my ashes will join hers. In life, she gave me everything that she could give, and for that, I will always be thankful.

[@edwardgaines6561]

_"What was left of her was still everything he needed."_ It's still a very sad statement though. 😕

[@MaoRatto]

All alone, this story hits harshly.... As I could identify most with the tree and the man... It makes me cry on the tree's side of things. Weirdly nostalgic of being in elementary when I read it when I was in elementary... The wise tree online meme by Ben Bros reminded me of this, but wanted the original and well. It made me nearly tear up. Despite just in my early 20's. All I would want is just less, not more.

[@tilltheend7902]

This story is like God and us. God gave and gave everything for us..His Son Jesus for us. Death is not the end. It us very painful to separate but death is only the beginning of eternity.

[@uncool3279]

Yes. All she had left was all he needed... I feel that your comment summed up the essence of this amazing story about the paradox and the beauty of love. It touched me

[@AnnetteLynnG]

I agree. As I have grown older and changed, how it makes me feel has changed. It is exactly how Shel wanted it to be.

[@simsgirlgem]

I need to hug my mom now excuse me

[@butteredbananas1394]

You are excused

[@willowoof4547]

@@butteredbananas1394 and your oofed

[@ASRMN27]

This reminded me of my mother, it opened my eyes, I realized I was being so cold, I'm sorry, I love you mom.

[@rawr5134]

justa relaxa say sry to your mom in real life she is no going to read it here

[@NaomiRuth]

Cherish the time with your Mother now before it is too late to redeem the time. It's usually the little details in life that can have the most significance. As humans we can be bad at losing our sight and overlooking the things that matter the most. Be kind. Be thankful. Love always. Love never fails. #CheckYourHeart often. Fix your eyes on Jesus. God is Love! Jesus loves the little children! Fight the good fight. Live the good life. Keep the faith. Love one another. Love truly, madly, deeply. Love will light the way. Make the world a better place. #BeTheChange.

[@lovelilly4428]

justa relaxa I love my mom , I hope she really knows

[@teo5836]

justa relaxa at least you had a loving mom

[@edwardgaines6561]

Please do. My mother passed over 20 years ago.

[@jorgenvonstrangle000]

"and the tree was happy" oh god I just cried from beginning to end. such a good book.

[@Shanethefilmmaker]

+Legal Fiction Natural Fact *Shel:* And the tree was happy. *Tree* But he took my branches. *Shel:* You're gonna be missing more if you don't shut up. *Tree:* I'll be good. *Shel:* And the tree was happy.

[@Shanethefilmmaker]

Legal Fiction Natural Fact I know. I was implying that in order for the tree to be happy. The writer himself would have tortured her into submission. It wouldn't be the first time writers messed with their creations.

[@Shanethefilmmaker]

Legal Fiction Natural Fact I'm not talking about real happiness, I am talking about forced emotion. Where someone would torture or condition a person until they think and feel whatever the torturer wants. I am simply accusing the author of being said torturer on the grounds that he is not the only fiction creator to torture their characters for kicks.

[@Henryduckfan63]

+Shanethefilmmaker I think you're taking this story too literally.

[@AKIRUH]

poem

[@brayandannunzio3797]

I'm gonna go hug a tree now.

[@AngelicBeatdown]

+Brayan Dannunzio I'm going to do one better, and fuck it.

[@Quoobuss]

+AngelicBeatdown why did you have to ruin this

[@AngelicBeatdown]

SKAR Life goes on?

[@gfbtfbtfilyfxbtyewqqef]

Brayan Dannunzio Make sure it's infested with ants

[@victoryomomma3531]

Brayan Dannunzio The real meaning was that you shouldn't take things for granted like he did

[@Nyx.Nax.9571]

What shel was trying to say in this story is "never take things for granted because one day you'll have nothing left"

[@sethbelanger8460]

My 4 year old son picks this out for me to read to him. Each and every time I cant help but to cry. It just conjures up something so true and tragic about life.

[@catm4904]

My mother was given this book when I was born in 1973. I still have my old, beaten, and well read book, which I've shared with my children. It has become my "Giving Tree", which I will pass on to my grandchildren.

[@teo5836]

Cool story bro

[@brf09]

This warms my heart

[@Psnowdog7]

Only the author could ever put these kinds of feels in this.

[@CarlosCastro-vf7fc]

I am in complete awe. I remember reading this a few years ago. I was eight back then and this story had no meaning to me at all. However, I am 18 now and this has touched my heart. As I was listening to the story, I stared reminiscing about my past and my mom came to my mind. My mom (along with my dad) has sacrificed so much. Both of my parents have guided me and their wise words have resonated within my heart.However as I began college, I became a very busy student (like many) and have forgotten about my parents sacrifice. Rereading The Giving Tree has changed my life completely. The story itself has a powerful meaning that resonates through every word in the story. From the very beginning to the very end. As the boy grew older, he began to love less and less. He became self-minded and became unaware of the tree's sacrifice. I don't want to be this boy, at least not anymore. Our generation has accepted this idea that growing-up means loving our parents less. We often become embarrassed of kissing mom and dad in the cheek in public. I hope this is not just me because if it is I am a horrible person. We are embarrassed to hold their hand in walks and even publicly talking to them on the phone. Overall, (i didn't know this comment would transform into an essay) I am getting older day by day and my parents aren't getting any younger. This means that growing up means loving our parents more. Love them like you have never loved them before. Love your parents now that you have the time. Love them an acknowledge them everyday. Love them before it is too late.This is coming from an eighteen-year old college student that has finally realized the meaning behind this amazing short-story. My education and my success is all made possible by God and my parents. I'll make you proud, Mom and Dad.

[@davidsong3662]

TL DR QQ

[@UToobphann]

What a lovely "essay." I'm sure you make your parents proud. :)

[@troyupshaw3846]

Read it again at 58.

[@fightingcarp]

You get it! And holy hell that almost made me cry as much as the book ❤️

[@dianer558]

I am certain you not only make your parents happy but proud too. God bless

[@paulsimmons4987]

This story either touches you, or it does not. If it does, that wonderful touch stays with you for your whole life. Beautiful story.

[@McDuders]

That describes stories like this perfectly.

[@afriendofbean]

@paulsimmons4987 It seems more like the story had a sad and/or confusing ending that the tree was only a stump and it feels like as soon as the story ended, the boy died from old age right then and there which explains why he said he feels very tired like he's feeling faint and probably felt that he wanted to die in his favorite spot near his best friend which was the tree.

[@hazahelramirez6994]

So this is such a beautiful book. It has been my favorite and deep down I think about it all the time. I read a lot of comments and came to my own conclusion as to what it meant to me. I wanted to believe the pessimistic point of view, and I wanted to rejoice with some of the other more positive people…. But all I can say is that that what this book meant to me was this: Don’t take advantage of the people that are willing to help you, and give you their all. Unconditional love is a beautiful thing….. and I saw this in my mother, she gave and gave and will keep giving if I ask, but…. I learned. If I were to ask of her to the extent this boy/grown man asks the tree… because the tree will keep on giving, she would keep giving… But because I was shown unconditional love, I was able to reciprocate that back, to not bleed my mother dry. In a broader sense, I learned to demonstrate to the world that I won’t take from it more than it can give, and to give enough for the world to see that I can give as well. It’s a deep felt love, and that is the only way I can explain it. I hope some understand.

[@weeladdan7323]

This is beautiful

[@Fnordathoth]

Beautiful statement and beautiful lesson you learned.

[@Cristinarocks98]

My heart aches for her and her unconditional love and beauty.

[@datboi5201]

One does not simply watch this and not cry

[@snugglebunnie6146]

thank god im not alone

[@Bogframe]

nope, you're not.

[@dawson2504]

OMG. I sobbed and sobbed. Glad to know it wasn't just me.

[@gonzalosolano4402]

Dat Boi I did not cry bitch

[@elliequinnn]

Dat Boi I watched it in year 2 and was *soooo* close to crying, but I did not!!!

[@phoebe4494]

Every time I hear Shel's voice say "...and the tree was happy", I felt like that line is most important for me. Even though some can see the boy as selfish and didn't show appreciation, Shel showed that the tree was still happy to be able to offer him something to the end of his days. The tree served the boy and gave him all it had, and was still happy. That teaches me that it's really attitude makes a big difference.

[@YoonHan35]

One reason why this is such a beautiful story with universal appeal, is that for everyone, it can be understood differently. So there is no one set way this story can deciphered, no one answer. Someone can take this story as the epitome of human selfishness, while the other can see this as a representation of the heights something/one will go to for the things they love.

[@lfroggyl]

Yes. Exactly. It's not black and white. If you change the way you look at the story, the story you look at will change.

[@lukasknell8826]

I thought of it as it was a sort of metaphor for a child and mother, and how she always gave what she had becuase she loved her child. A d she wanted to be with him in his final moments, but after he cut the stump, she had died and he missed her so much, so he sat down in their old home.

[@sophiekratter1889]

Such a beautiful book. I cry every time I read it.

[@crazytidy2426]

This is a beautiful story! The tree is willing to do anything for the boy! Even with shel silverstein's voice he make it sound so more emotional! I watched this for the first time and cried, this story should be passes on for generations!

[@jamsee1]

+DaMewTunes Well said, i agree with you as it teaches us that the one most important thing (over anything) you could wish to receive in our lives is the true affection found only of love

[@waterboy1588]

Good ass book

[@tonifrancis2189]

I think this is about unconditional love. The tree was happy without her leaves, without her branches and even without her trunk. Didn't matter what the boy did, as long as she could still give and make him happy, that's what made her happy. She was not affected by his selfishness, she was made happy by her being able to provide him what he wanted or needed. Shel made a point of writing, "and the tree was happy." If the tree is happy, that's what matters. It's a wonderful story, and I am grateful to Shel Silverstein for sharing his talent. It also clearly illustrates the boy's change from companion to user which my children picked up on immediately and felt the boy was not very nice to the tree. Lesson Learned. Good job, Shel!

[@paytonsequoia9501]

The 🌳 feels like a metaphor of a mother whom goes thru labor pains but is happy

[@ewakruszynska8519]

funny how the words "and the tree was happy" can actually cause a waterfall of tears.

[@Wolfmyth100]

I love this story so much...and I love that the heart with "Me and T" is still there at the end.

[@EshaKarim]

This is a sad sad reminder to take care of your parents when they are old. To give them back, to be with them. Why would you choose to not be with them if you can? Why do you crave individuality so much? Why do you fly from your parent's nest?

[@caparcher2074]

I am my own person.

[@msskylos]

Cap Archer| Then you will regret your freedom.

[@adamz0037]

@@caparcher2074 a very immature person at that.

[@toxicvillain]

I wish I could fly.

[@PoetVeritas]

A profoundly beautiful story about unconditional love and sacrifice, written and read by the late multi-talented artist, Shel Silverstein. It juxtaposes our sometimes selfish and frivolous Human values against the humble goodness of pure, selfless love and limitless kindness. #POETVERITAS

[@waterboy1588]

Yes

[@mrreaper8826]

Goes to show that the most human of all of us here, is a tree.

[@smoothtriston6203]

Yea, a sentient demon tree with dank ass apples......

[@waterboy1588]

Its about giving it all that you have.

[@brianhebert5841]

this is the greatest story ever written.... "I have no house" said the tree "the forest is my house....but" instant tears!!

[@bradyryan5105]

That's what gets me; why the tree's branches didn't grow back

[@Maj_gd]

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein is a heartwarming story about a tree and a boy. Throughout the book, the tree acts as a loving and nurturing parental figure, always providing for the boy’s needs and wants. At the start of the story, the tree is a playmate for the young boy. It gives him its leaves to play with and branches to climb. As the boy grows older, his needs become more complex, but the tree is always there to provide. The tree sacrifices its branches to build the boy a house and then a boat, showing how much it truly cares for the boy’s well-being. Despite the tree’s selflessness, the boy continues to take and take, never stopping to think about the tree’s own needs and wants. However, the tree never complains or holds a grudge, always giving with love and generosity. In the end, when the boy is old and the tree is nothing but a stump, the tree still gives, this time providing a bench for the boy to sit on. The Giving Tree is a reminder of the importance of giving, selflessness, and love. The tree’s unconditional love and generosity towards the boy serves as a model for how we should treat others, always giving without expecting anything in return.

[@huntercoleman460]

I agree. This is probably one of the best mother and son representations in a story. We sons don’t realize the sacrifices our mother makes for us as kids. This story has really grown on me.

[@javiermanzano7792]

It could also be a parable for abusing people’s generosity. “I want money” shows the boy’s increasing desire for material goods at the expense of the tree.

[@piper888]

Selflessness and selfishness Are not a good combination. A good parent teaches their children MANNERS. DOESN'T JUST SPOIL THEM

[@michyoung77]

This book kills me. It’s about a parent’s unconditional love.

[@Littlenapualamb]

This book has and will always be my favorite. As a child, my mom would read it to my sister and I. I don't think I understood much of it but I remember how much it made me feel things and not really being too sure of what to make of it. I'm 31 now and even though this book probably means a lot of things, I feel like the greatest lesson to learn from it is this: no matter what you can give or receive in life, in the end, none of those material things matter, all you need is eachother. All those things the boy asked for had no purpose for him at the end. And even though the tree had nothing left to give him, that too didn't matter. He just needed a quiet place to sit and rest, and he found that in her. I really love this book and think everyone should read it at least once. My son and I have read it countless times and I even have a tattoo on my collarbone that quotes "And the tree was happy..." Such a beautiful and simple timeless classic

[@rustyshackleford6811]

I'm 55 and week and old ..so I cry even easier now..after all the years I've known this book. Since I was a boy myself..I was 5 in 73..

[@benjaminbarrera214]

When I read this as a kid, I thought the boy was cruel and selfish and the tree was foolish for allowing herself to be victimized. But now that I'm much older, I don't see the story as teaching a lesson. It is stating a truth about love. The story is called "The Giving Tree", not "The Taking Boy". It's about the tree's love for the boy and how giving everything brings her happiness. The story is not about the boy because he is just living his life like anyone else. Like a parent, the tree is happy to help in any way she can because she always sees him as her boy. Maybe you need to raise children before the story finally makes sense to you. No matter how much they take, you are happy simply because you are able to give. It isn't a sad story at all because the tree is happy, right?

[@DaleDy]

SAME SAME SAME! It's been almost 2 decades since i've last revisited this story... it's a beautiful story.

[@antigravtoast2]

Most people are the opposite, people come back 30 years later and go "I remember, that boy is a douchebag, I hate this story and the guy who wrote it". It pisses me off quite.

[@emilieg4336]

This^

[@2012iwanttogohome]

👏👏👏👏👏. God, yes. This comment is so on point.

[@taiccataiccarouge144]

is it really "happy"? dont you think that the tree is OVERused? exploited? I think is what some parents do (spoil their kids) and they end up being spoil brats...

[@animelover101010100]

for some reason i just ended up crying so much while listening to this

[@animelover101010100]

i dont cry because its bad or something i cry because its sad and meaningful

[@KrystalLake]

sama animea Exactly. Crying is not always a bad thing. In this case, it's because this story touched our hearts. Sometimes emotions can be so strong, they have to be physically released in the form of tears. It can be quite cathartic and therapeutic. There's something beautiful when a story or work of art affects other people the same way it affected you. A shared emotional experience...

[@maxwelllewis4486]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jesus_wept

[@caseroj6020]

I finally found this old video. I first saw this video during Saturday morning cartoon in the mid 1970's. I must have been 6 or 7 yrs old at the time but this story stuck with me all these years into my mid 50's today. I really liked this story and how I yearned to find it again. I am very glad someone bothered to post it on youtube. Thank you very much for giving me back a piece of my childhood!

[@monanamichelle773]

I always took this story as the love of God and mothers. How they sacrifice everything for us and how we feel like we are entitled to their love and everything we get from them. It's about an unselfish bond between God and humans and mothers and their children..Idk..maybe I have had to much to drink..Till this day I have this book, and though I'm in my 20s now, this will be my all time favorite book, the message is timeless

[@skyhr]

Yes, especially Christ's cross = wood, maybe some connection there. And definitely the connection between mothers and her child. Love is patient.

[@stephenspinato]

the author says its a story about a tree and that its a sad story.

[@qualmify2544]

I don't think it has to do with any god. Maybe the mother. What about nature? Does she not give us all we need and more? Do we not take her for granted?

[@danielkhan1]

Filthy athiest here, but I just think it's a simple story of how love can be difficult when it's one-sided.

[@cameronketch2363]

That One Weird kid browsing through the Internet The beauty of art is the interpretation is that of audience. Everyone comes from a different place with different experiences so art is interpreted be everyone differently. That's what is beautiful about it.

[@removed6177]

i just cried and asked my mother for a hug. This a very beautiful story it can mean anything to anyone. I see it as a mother giving her child anything he/she wants and needs. And i as a daughter see the boy taking everything he gets from the tree but forgets to value and appreciate the tree. But always comes back to the tree because that's the only thing thats always been there for him. I'd like to remind everyone who is reading this go hug and always appreciate that one person whos there for you and supports you with anything, at all times. Please tell them you love and appreciate them, before its to late. Thank you.

[@doobernow]

I bought this book the day I found out I was pregnant (9/95). I read it every day to my belly and had I beautiful boy. I read it for the first few years until Are You My Mother took over. This one will always have a special place in my heart!!

[@SuperSquirtle01]

I remember reading the book when I was in grade 3, it actually made me cry and today it still does. That tree is so loving, and would give anything for that boy, even if that boy would give nothing in return, just seeing that boy happy makes the tree happy. Even when the boy was extremely selfish and was "too busy" for the tree, the tree still loves him. ;_;

[@makaveli6873]

I haven’t heard this audio in 11 years and I still remember how sad the reader sounded. This book is much deeper than people realize

[@jasonbean1775]

The narrator is Shel Silverstein himself!

[@bradyryan5105]

​@@jasonbean1775yup

[@damion3578]

What an amazing story that accurately depicts the never ending supply of love that one can give to another even to the point of one's own destruction...

[@GenevieveThornton]

I knew when it started with that sad harmonica I shouldn't have watched it!

[@kurlykaitlyn]

As a child I loved this story. I knew it was sad. The boy was selfish and this tree loved him so much and wanted so badly to be loved she just kept giving. I didn’t have loving parents. I remember trying so hard to earn my mothers love. I think that’s why I loved this story so much. I would cry and wish I had this tree. In my 20s I made an older friend who became a maternal figure to me for some years. Then covid happened. we had worked together and I saw her recently. I felt detached. I wrote a short story about our relationship based on this book I love so much. Basically she’s a sequoia in a forest of us trees(our community). Me and her communicate through our roots. A disease(covid) causes sickness to the trees and kills some, our roots lose communication. I leave the forest. I go back after some time and I see her. I feel the loving connection and she does too, only now Ive grown up and Ive detached. I’ll always love this woman for being there for me like I never had with my mom.

[@odawgisboss1486]

I remembered my 1st grade teacher showed us this. 12 years till now this popped up in my mind and I completely forgot how heart warming this was. Complete masterpiece.

[@davidvose2475]

In the story, when the boy takes away the trunk, "and the tree was happy ... but not really". These last 3 words are haunting, and missing from the film. It is about man's attitude to nature, about man's selfishness, about parental unconditional love. Take your pick. But when I read it to my four year old son, I feel its melancholy, even if he does not.

[@zoeylynn918]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2OUhHV5r9R-lbc 🌳🍎

[@Vegetarian_Tiger]

When I was a child, this story made me cry. Now, *The story makes me cry even more.*

[@billyjoyner7796]

I have been listening to mr. Shel Silverstein for over 55 years the best story and songwriter that ever lived I believe in my opinion of course

[@zoeylynn918]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2OUhHV5r9R-lbc 🌳

[@Ictakqobbqoni]

This is the first time I've heard this whole story through in over ten years and I'm bawling like a baby. I can relate to the tree. Being lonely, and living only to make someone happy, who only returns to use you because they don't love you any more. At least not like they once did. Yet somehow, there's a ray of hope in this story. After all, there is still some fulfillment to be found in the tree's love and giving. And even when the tree is nothing but an old stump and has little to give, the boy comes back and does not ask for much anymore, and the tree is happy.

[@sammylane21]

This story always tears me up. The Giving Tree is the boy's true parent and he never not once says a thank you, which is why I always tell my parents thank you for everything they have and still do give to me and my brothers.

[@adambenrefael2067]

It's a diffrent story when you are a grown person ....make me cry a little bit

[@avg1712]

These stories should be revisited, even in our adult lives, as a reminder of important parts of who we are.

[@cindygonzalez5618]

My kindergarten teacher read this to us. I remember feeling sad for the tree, and thinking the boy did not love or appreciate the friendship/love the tree gave. But then I knew the boy was content to just sit in the present with the tree. And the tree was happy. And now as an adult, it teaches a few lessons and at different stages in life.

[@huntercoleman460]

This story made me realize how much we as kids take our mothers’ for granted. We don’t realizes the sacrifices our parents make for us. The tree gave up her beautiful natural things to please the boy who took advantage of her. He never once thanked her for everything she did for him and I don’t think he realized how much she loved him. Do you agree?

[@mimialways22]

I literally cried...sounds corny but i teared up. I haven't read this book since i was 6 years old and i remember it being so sad but kind of beautiful. I guess if you read between the lines you know what story is telling.

[@kbrown11357]

Your pretty.

[@kbrown11357]

Your pretty.

[@RevaeRavus]

kbrown11357 Don't be a fucking creep. Christ.

[@kbrown11357]

I am so sorry I posted that comment. I never meant to offend you or anyone. I don't want to be a creep. Your comment has me thinking so much about it now, I don't know what to do. I hope I can sleep at night after giving this girl a compliment and having read your harsh words. I care so much about what you think I don't know what to do with myself. I mean, your right. If I complemented her, someone else might. Then everyone would. Why....it would be chaos. Sigh.....

[@RevaeRavus]

First off, that is aggressively passive aggressive - you might as well have just said "fuck off". Second: It's not that it's a compliment, it's that it's completely unwarranted. It has nothing to do with what she said, or who she is, or anything. You don't just stop people on the street and say "you're pretty" because the first thing that goes through their head isn't "thanks" it's "shit, I don't know this guy, hope he doesn't want to wear my face as a mask". Just... Make conversation. Chill out some, you know?

[@ICanHazWaffles705]

God this kid is selfish. The tree does so much for him and gets nothing in return.

[@Snowwydaydreamr]

+MetalGamerSolid705 I've seen fellow classmates who take full advantage of their parents, and despite saying they love them. in reality they've never done anything to say that they do. My sister also says she loves our mom, but all she ever does is ask her for things and leaves her with nothing, not even a thank you. And because of that everyone slowly begins to dislike her because she never thinks of other people and their problems, she takes but she never gives anything in return.

[@Jcarlo]

the tree is are parents

[@tvolanth]

+MetalGamerSolid705 but yet, the tree is happy

[@foreverfuturebound]

agreed

[@gogurtcat]

Thats what i was thinking to

[@littlebeesam]

Just watched a youtube video saying how different this book can be at different stages of your life, and remebering as a kid that this was just a good fun story about a talking tree that was there for the boy I went to watch. I was not prepared to cry at seeing how sad and different the book means to me know. I feel bad for the tree, it gave everything to satisfy the one person in its life that never showed that love back. And in the end they sit together in silence, old and withered. I feel for the first time in awhile the tree might have been actually happy to see the boy stay with them, but they had to give up everything and still was ready to give up even more :(

[@isabelacassidy1422]

I can't stop crying... Anybody? ;___;

[@NoFuckingHandlesLeft]

No

[@isabelacassidy1422]

Stfu >.>

[@NoFuckingHandlesLeft]

Okay

[@98ed57]

Ik ook !

[@kylered1268]

Every fucking time.

[@lindsayhengehold5341]

Love Shel Silverstein & his stories/ poems

[@SharriD]

Wow! Such an amazing story. This is how the Creator must feel about us. No matter how we so selfishly take from His abundant giving spirit, His love remains steadfast until the end of our days. Jesus! I need to do better in loving my Heavenly Creator His abundant gifts towards me. Amen!

[@StraightFashionMan]

Seems to me like he's saying that when you're a child, life is happy. But when you're an adult, life is less happy. And when you're old, life is very very sad

[@downregulate8679]

StraightFashionMan I believe he is saying that when you grow up you lose sight of what true happiness is. You become selfish, only visiting the people that love you when you need something instead of spending time with them which is where true happiness lies.

[@downregulate8679]

w9j15g You've got it backwards. America in the 70's, when a strong family unit was quite common, self centered children were a rarity unlike today. Its not until you grow older that you want to be materialistic. As a child, you long to play with others. When you grow older you want to experience more thinking happiness is something that is accumulated when in fact it can only be lived in the moment you spend with those that love you and visa versa. If the boy really never stopped being a boy he would have played with the tree every time he visited her instead of using her.

[@downregulate8679]

w9j15g How did human nature not change since the 70's? Technology? The youth fixated on cellphones and would rather text than to talk on the phone. Video games? The internet? You speak nonsense.

[@downregulate8679]

w9j15g Human nature refers to the distinguishing characteristics-including ways of thinking, feeling and acting-which humans tend to have naturally, independently of the influence of culture. Technology has had a huge impact on human nature. You don't have the same natural response to your emotions if you are a person who grows up in a developed country vs an underdeveloped country. You can see correlations on this from psychological studies. Common personality disorders differ from develop countries to underdeveloped countries. One easy example that has been demonstrated was in the high suicide rate that once was in countries like Japan and Switzerland and psychiatrist documenting the feelings of some of these victims vs the way people feel in poorer countries. Your guess was was wrong on me being a child from the 70's.

[@timzado-georgiancollege6189]

I fear I've been too much like the boy, and too little like the tree. Thank you for the eye-opener.

[@thiagov6123]

Reminds me of my relationship with my mother.

[@PrincessBunhead]

This takes me back! When I was in first grade, reading Shel's poems and stories, our teacher showed us this. She hooked up the large projector reels. I told people about it and I kept getting funny looks, but I remembered watching The Giving Tree as well as reading it. Thank you so much for posting it :) Major nostalgia.

[@ryebread7224]

Perfect example of unconditional love. I find I cry more from this story the older I get. Such an amazing little story by one of the greatest.

[@isleep5hrseveryday105]

I read this book in 4th grade I think? Now looking back it’s such a ad and beautiful story about taking people for granted. I still love it so much

[@cajordan574]

I'm going to a kindergarten class today for a "Teach-in". I'm reading this story.......I think.... if I can make it through without crying...... As a mother of a son, whom I love with all my branches.........We planted a tree in our front yard - two acorns grew side by side. My son said, "Mother and son together forever." A mother's love is enduring and giving.....and she is happy.

[@lovelilly4428]

This my favorite book I keep giving to my nieces and nephews, it’s a Timeless book, with morals, When I was a kid I would always check out everything in my school library by Shel Silverstein

[@SkylerKnopp]

..tears.. That was beautiful. That tree loved the boy. I wanna go be with Jesus now..

[@ApPillon]

never understood the message in this poem when I was young but now that I do I think it's really beautiful.

[@icaptureditforyou]

There's something about trees, that's for sure. I so wish that I can one day be as caring and as generous as the giving tree.

[@bobdull6699]

I think this is a really important story to read children. It teaches them to respect nature as well as care for the people in their lives.

[@vickylau3631]

The tree represents a true friend or someone that truly loves you and wants to see you happy. And is willing to give it all so the other person can be happy, and just with that, the tree was happy. If you are happy, then I am happy. The tree was always there, no matter what.

[@dreambigdoc]

This is a parable about parenting, plain and simple, yet profound. Silverstein was a genius.

[@warriorsunite]

This story was apart of my childhood and now that I'm an adult I see time has gone by so fast,this is tear jerker for me now,it just gets sadder the more it goes. Love the people that love you because just like the tree you'll be alone and sad when you least expect,I relate to the tree and the boy in many different ways

[@mikezak8812]

Never saw this ! The book always made me cry. I am 55 years old and I am watching this for the first time. I can't stop the tears...

[@zoeylynn918]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2OUhHV5r9R-lbc

[@AsylumSeekerWTF]

No idea what kinda house he was making which only took branches to build but it couldn't of been a very good one

[@octavia458]

That's why he got divorced.

[@JackyTMusic]

@@octavia458 ahhahahaha

[@flagmichael]

It was a house made from the branches of one apple tree.

[@afriendofbean]

@AsylumSeekerWTF Maybe he was only using the branches for shelter or using the branches to build a mini log cabin for himself almost like this Sesame Street video clip of making a log cabin, kzbin.info/www/bejne/nnLFZXiuft9knJo

[@silverpslm]

This was such a nice story about being a parent or good friend. Always sacrificing for those you love. It doesn't say it in the book, but there had to have been a time others came to visit, like his kids to see the tree at least once perhaps. Even the boy had to experiance what the tree experienced, which it why it always came back.

[@pardiojessika]

Mother Nature as an allusion to our own mothers. I grew up on Shel Silverstein and his poems and stories greatly shaped me.

[@lilikoilychee4975]

I love reading this to my kids while they’re still young. I love both my daughters want them to know I’d give them the world to make them happy in life.

[@stephie18th]

I rarely talk about this, but my nieces and nephew were in a family home. I wasn’t able adopt them, so I would go everyday to visit them. I would read to them, one day my niece pulled out a book and sure enough it was The Giving Tree when I was reading it I got emotional, but made myself look normal on the outside. When I was done reading it she told me “I love this book”. It made me feel sad considering the situation they were in and the fact that she was 6 and understood what the book was about. I still think about this memory and it holds a special place in my heart. Stay safe everyone.🤍

[@zoeylynn918]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2OUhHV5r9R-lbc

[@ryanperrymba]

This has got to be the most depressing story I've ever read. I'd heard the title before, expecting it to be inspiring / uplifting. Yes, the tree is happy, but in a twisted, sadistic way. The tree could have been so much happier giving the old man a shady spot to lay down under (what old man with a cracked up back wouldn't value laying in the shade over sitting in the sun), apples, and a few branches with which to beat them into a pulp to make apple sauce or cider? How, you say? The kid should have taken that first batch of apples, planted more trees with the seeds, and started an orchard. Then he'd have owned a freaking estate and 42' yacht! ... If you are going to do something for someone, do it! Yes, you will be happy. But before that, stop and think if there isn't another way that will lead to better outcomes for both of you. (Key here, both sides usually have to give something).

[@stevenbrucci]

I agree, except I'd say the tree was not so much sadistic as masochistic.

[@randomcat1608]

Good quote at the end

[@calvinmoore2925]

My children are 12, 11, 10, and 7. They have never been read this story, but i will be playing this video tonight before bed. I remember my mom reading this to me as a young boy

[@ccacordova113]

I cried just watching this this is honestly one of my favorite books

[@SwornInvictus]

As a kid I cried for the tree 😭

[@kara__kats4865]

If he wants money so badly, why doesn't he say to everyone, "Hey, I found a talking, sentient tree!" People would pay lots for that...

[@ciosborn]

No matter how much was taken from her, she was happy...when she was needed.

[@AlexLopez0506]

this was my favorite story when I was a kid.

[@GodisKing1219]

Bates Motel brought me here I forgot all about this I remember reading this as a kid makes me sad that we all grow up and then we get old love this story.

[@lovefitch]

This has always been one of my favorite books since childhood. Loving someone so much that you put their happiness above yours--you'd do anything you could, give everything you have, to make them happy because their happiness is your happiness. Such a beautiful book, I'll always love it.

[@brantkim]

This is an interesting story as it can seen and interpreted from many different angles, especially based on where you are in your life and the experiences that you have had. I remember as a child having this story read to me and reading it myself over and over again as it was one of my favorite books. I wanted to grow up to be the tree to love unconditionally as it would bring me happiness. When I grew into an adult this was the love I wanted to give to a wife and children, unconditional, without end as it would make me happy. That is what I remembered through the years as I grew older and I tried all that I could to give all that I had to those that I loved and at times to the very special person in my life. Later I learned that like many of Silverstein's works there is a darker side for those that can see it. Like an optical illusion where one person sees a beautiful woman and the other a crone. Only those that have experienced certain aspects of life the story is darker and much sadder than we remember as a child. The story is about a narcissist and a codependent. One that is willing to sacrifice anything and wait to receive love and the other who only knows how to take. Only when the boy was a boy did he appreciate and love the tree. But as time went and the boy's attention changed he just used the tree to fulfil his own desires. The tree gave more and more of herself and thought she was happy while the boy just took more and more to pursue happiness. In the end they had nothing of themselves and the boy was never happy. He was a bottomless pic that only cared to take and for narcissists they can never fill that void. The boy had a girlfriend and wasn't happy so he came back, he built a house got married and had kids but ultimately returned, he made a boat to sail away from all his troubles but only had more so he returned. In the end the boy who had been married with kids, died alone with a stump.

[@skary7903]

My parents are going to have to cut down one of my favorite trees, with my favorite swing made out of wood on it, I would always swing on it ever since I was little, I still do, and now I'm going to go cry and fight for the tree! 😭🌳

[@lachlanhenderson6591]

#PrayForSyderdoozie

[@waterboy1588]

We really have to save earth

[@TheHigherVoltage]

So...the tree loved the boy so much it would give everything when asked...and the boy only cared about what the tree would give him. I'm not sure either perspective is a worthwhile lesson other than a cautionary tale of how not to live.

[@x0thorn0x]

TheHigherVoltage, here’s the great thing about being in society, we can all help each other to see another perspective... to me the lesson is: Adulthood doesn’t hold all the answers. Don’t ever fully grow up, don’t lose your innocence and never stop playing. Doesn’t hurt to appreciate a tree once in a while as well.

[@sirswearsalot1813]

@@x0thorn0x That's a good way to look at it.

[@AntarcticaJay]

After 40 years, I still love this story. (and book) How anyone could ever give this story a thumbs down is beyond me, they must be selfish evil people. Thanks for posting! :-)

[@TheHigherVoltage]

"How anyone could ever give this story a thumbs down is beyond me, they must be selfish evil people." I didn't give it a thumbs down, but I don't love this story. The tree is unselfish to the point of being abused by the selfish boy. And I most definitely don't consider myself selfish or evil in that summary. On the contrary, my empathy is for the tree - giving and giving to a selfish boy who does not care about the tree, only what he can get from it. That's not love, that's an abusive relationship.

[@AntarcticaJay]

TheHigherVoltage This story tries to teach us how Not to be like the boy. The Giving Tree is an analogy for all of us. We all have been abusers during the path of our lives. It's human nature. (And if you don’t see that, you are either lying to yourself or a fool.) After watching this story, I would hope that with introspection all of us will see the little boy inside us. Hopefully we grow as individuals, learn respect for others and teach unselfishness to our children. (Remember, this is a children's story) It is also about unconditional love.

[@Kevin-jb2pv]

This story is fucking devastating and it always has been.

[@brianadoherty7674]

This book makes me think of a parents love for their child. To give and give and give, and to see your child happy makes YOU happy. And how a child will always come back to their parents for answers and for help.

[@zoeylynn918]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2OUhHV5r9R-lbc 🌳

[@mrclean6638]

I used to feel sad when I was a little kid hearing this story Time really dose go by fast

[@zoeylynn918]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2OUhHV5r9R-lbc

[@jaymarie3924]

I always cry listening to this or reading the story... The symbolic meaning behind it goes in soooooo many directions depending on how you think...

[@kahlafrida6382]

That boy is a total dbag

[@colinmcneil595]

Kahla Frida lol!

[@arreyahnicholson2601]

Tell me about it 🤣🤣🤣

[@sylviaveliz7137]

@@colinmcneil595 f

[@thephilosopher5799]

Nah he’s just like everyone else. He was never happy with himself, always wanted more.

[@2012iwanttogohome]

Today was my son's 6th grade recognition day and ceremony. The principal of the school presented this story to us before the certificates were handed out. The reading of the very first sentence had me in absolute tears! It was so touching and moving. So very beautiful. Thank you for uploading this.

[@locoluck777]

Shel Silverstein had such a pleasant reading voice. I wish I could have met him. This story is so bittersweet and has always held a special place in my heart, from childhood to adulthood

[@afriendofbean]

@locoluck777 He was great that he wrote great poems too from the book, "Where The Sidewalk Ends."