A tree stands tall, a living symbol of constancy, impervious to the trials of human existence, like the earthly embodiment of an immutable force.

Sometimes, when I am alone with them, I feel the trees with soul. Some trees speak more clearly than others. When I was in western Sweden I discovered that there are many Scots pines (tall in Swedish). They are special trees that usually hide deep in the forests, in small rocky outcrops. Here are a couple of photos of one of my favorites sitting “like an avatar” in his own space.

I have visited this particular tree often in the fall. At dusk, the light sinks into the forest and traps the branches in a kaleidoscope of worn fragments. Here it has become a dark arch: it stretches over the forest floor. Inviting you to stand beneath it.

But it’s easier to photograph when the sky is cloudy or just after the sun has set. That’s when you get the images that help discover his character. There are no contrasts to distract the eye and he becomes a giant being with his arms extended above you.

Or, and this last image is my favorite, he invites you to pass between the old exposed tree stumps while he waits – prepared, poised, almost expectant – for you to come before him.