The Christmas tree inside the mall at 900 North Michigan is an impressive thing. I don’t know where it’s stored or how it’s assembled, but every year it appears, all massive cheer, its height extending for several stories.
O, Christmas tree!
Its connotations are very different than the old German song (O Tannenbaum) that it evokes. That song was simply about evergreens and about appreciating the symbolism and beauty of a tree that, even in the depths of winter, remained constant, verdant and life-affirming. As we browse the mall, we may hear the tune over a loudspeaker. Whether in German or English, the sentiment of this old folk tune is rather corny. But earnest in the connection to nature that’s at its core.
The Bloomingdale’s Christmas tree comforts us in a different way, telegraphing prosperity, and what passes for constancy in our consumer society. No matter what, we can count on the artificial Christmas tree’s appearing. Green is the promise of the holiday shopping season, when merchants are hopeful that their customers will buy.
harley says
I always like that tree very much too………..A long time ago, maybe in 1990, I saw the tree being constructed; a crew of men on scafflods were putting it together one large piece at a time………That is nice picture of the tree !
Celia says
It’s huge–I imagine that putting it up is dangerous, too, since it sits on a landing over the atrium.
Thinking of the tree brings back a sad recollection of a man who committed suicide by throwing himself off the top level of the mall. Do you remember that? I think it was right around the holidays.
harley says
UGH! What a tough call. No, I don’t recall that.