Nick chooses to spell out the word "Still" in gigantic letters, legible from space. Why do you think he chose this particular word?

Nick chooses to spell out the word "Still" in gigantic letters, legible from space. Why do you think he chose this particular word?

This is a great question. I think "Still" means that the forest has prevailed, at least until that point. It also refers to the quiet of the space. But could it also refer to the number of us who are standing still while things crumble around us?

As he began with the symbolism of the Chestnut Tree, I believe Powers ended his work with symbolism: the great beauty of the still standing forests may be their stillness, the calm, quiet way in which they go about doing their work, both seen and unseen it still goes on, and the peace which emanates from spending time in that stillness. Perhaps this is enough to remind us there is still time?

I love all the above thoughts on the word STILL. I alternated between the trees Still surviving and the eco-minded Still fighting for them. I do love the idea of stillness, still standing, etc! The thought of there STILL being hope also was a thought for me.

Still need people to help the forests. This forest is still standing but for how long without help? Be still and listen to the lessons we could learn from trees. I would love to know what the author did intend with that single word.

All good points.

I especially loved the author's choice of the word "Still" large enough to be seen from outer space. I believe the author intended that there be so many possible meanings for it. I chose to interpret it as encouraging us to cling to hope.

I took it to mean the trees were still there although the other responses made me expand my thinking.

In the segment dealing with Mimi toward the end of the novel the following is stated: "There are seeds that need fire. Seeds that need to be swallowed, etched in digestive acid, expelled as waste. Seeds that must be smashed open before they'll germinate."
"A thing can travel everywhere, just by holding STILL"