The Singing Tree
Each rendition of a timeless concept has an ironic variation in the amount of time each cycle takes. The length of a war is a perfect example, as it is impossible to determine its end without understanding the nature of the participants. Kate Seredy’s Singing Tree is designed to instill an understanding of the Hungarian people, particularly in the context of World War I, so that people today can understand what makes the war machine tick. It is not wrath; that cannot last nearly as long as modern wars. But rather it is hope. The great virtue led to many deaths in World War I, as the perpetuation of hope delayed the conclusion of peace treaties. The novel as a whole is about moving beyond reliance on hope, as each character begins to focus on responsibility, which is less fickle than hope.
The novel begins with an excellent effort to contextualize Hungarian culture. This includes an emphasis on the Jewish people's role in the formation of modern Hungary, as a monument has been erected to commemorate that people group specifically. The Jewish integration into Hungarian culture can also be seen in the Jewish side character, Uncle Moses. Uncle Moses is a clever businessman, as demonstrated in the first chapter when the main character, Jancsi, visits his shop. During that visit, Jancsi learns about dedication to work, and the reader learns about a somewhat archaic bartering system the Jewish shopkeeper employs to overcome ethnic prejudice.
The final scene before the war begins is a complex allegory: a Hungarian wedding. Apart from offering another dose of an overlooked culture, this scene, in context, shows that war is a commitment, a bond. Without responsibility from both parties, there will be painful complications. And, no matter what, marriage and war alike must end in death (If not physical, then emotional).
The central portion of the book shows the strain conscription can put on a household. Neighbors must rely on each other, and children are put under pressure far exceeding what is healthy. To remedy this, two unique programs were formed, of which the Nagy family participated: foster care for strained households and wartime slavery to fill the need. After the father’s departure, the house lost its dynamic warmth and felt desolate. But as six relocated German children and six Russian prisoners of war are incorporated into the household, the house quickly becomes alight with complex desire and solemn, comforting understanding.
The novel's ultimate message concerns insanity. Insanity is the main reason why earthly hope cannot resist true trial. The affliction simply chokes hope, stealing its vitality until it is useless. Uncle Marton speaks about two moments in the war that combated the insanity that ultimately got him discharged. The first was a real event: The silent night, the special Christmas Eve, where soldiers from both sides rejoiced. This reminded Marton of the responsibility to stifle hate in order to respect life. The second was a powerful fictional occurence: Marton and his comrades came upon a tree, standing alone amidst fallen comrades. This tree was singing, singing with the aid of the many songbirds nestled between its branches. It was, like a silent night, a testament to the beauty of acting as a vessel for something greater. Marton felt the responsibility to allow civilians to continue singing, and with that responsibility, he summoned enough strength to become the tree, bearing a fruit that echoes through generations.
The Chase Verdict is that, by virtue of a unique concept coupled with a unique approach, this novel is well-formed. It is an excellent vessel for historical truth and offers a valuable experience.