The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree gained a lot of publicity this year. Each year, a Christmas tree is placed in Trafalgar Square and lit with lights in the traditional method (as per Scandinavian style, the lights are hung horizontally instead of vertically). The tradition started in 1947 as a gift from Norway to Britain as a "thank you" for the support during World War II. The felling of the tree outside Oslo is an additional tradition with a poetry project attached to the process of the gifting. This year, however, the Christmas tree was mocked because it did not appear to be shaped perfectly and had some sparse branches.
This is a real tree, and it is a gift from Norway. The significance should be placed upon that. The tree was given as a significance to remember those who helped each other. A real tree is not going to look perfect. What is "perfect"? Sure, some of the branches may be a little sparse near the bottom. Perhaps that part of the tree was covered by another pine tree. Perhaps it got the shade on a hillside or other trees and did not grow much there. Perhaps it had some damage on its way to England. In my opinion, it is a beautiful tree. It does not have to be perfect. What is perfect anyway? It is nature.
I imagine this tree in the forest in Norway, enjoying the company of wildlife and fresh snow. Then, it is chopped down to enjoy a Christmas in London so that everyone can enjoy seeing it and remember the history of the tradition.
Next to the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is a nativity scene in a glass box, which is an art installation known as "Christmas Crib" by Tomoaki Suzuki. The work was commissioned by the church St. Martin-in-the-Fields in Trafalgar Square.
This year, there was also a fairly large Christmas market at Trafalgar Square and up by the National Gallery. Perhaps there was a marketing plan to get as many people into Trafalgar Square this year to see the Christmas tree.
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