The Overstory

“But this is America, where men and trees take the most surprising outings.” 

The first chapters of the novel introduce the audience to the central themes of the text. As the years pass, the Hoel family grows up in the shadow of the chestnut tree. The “surprising outings” of the family become interwoven with the life of the tree. The family’s history is the tree’s history, whether it is tracing the westward movement of the people across America or memorializing those who are buried beneath it. Just as the chestnut tree becomes a metaphorical document for the history of the Hoel family, the novel itself will focus on the theme of the interconnectedness of the lives of humanity and trees. 

“Why not an American named Winston?” 

During his journey to America, Ma Sih Hsuin becomes Winston Ma. The change of name is not considered an affront; rather, he casts himself in a mythical role. Just as the figures from myths changed into animals and flowers, he has transformed into an American. The rhetorical question posed hints to the energy and eagerness with which Sih Hsuin has embraced his transformation. His optimism and zealousness are yet to be dimmed; at this moment, the idea of America is still quasi-mythical.