In defense of jacarandas
Re “Why I hate jacarandas,” Gustavo Arellano column, June 18
There’s no denying Gustavo Arellano’s writing prowess. His words are as vivid and vibrant as the purple jacaranda flowers he despises. But at what price? In the end, he has harnessed the mighty power of the pen to bully a tree.
Arellano complains about the notorious mess jacarandas leave. But, aside from the incredible environmental benefits of trees — and in this day and age of rapid desecration of nature, that’s a big deal — let’s not forget that many great things in life come with a struggle. So, I’ll take the jacarandas, their debris and all.
These days, with so much division and uncertainty, I grasp at the simple joys. Sometimes I like nothing better than reclining on the couch and gazing through the slats of the blinds at the lacy branches and their glorious infusion of purple. And for a time, however brief, all worries evaporate.
Unlike Arellano, I find jacaranda trimming a somber occasion, when I know I’ll have to wait at least two years for the tree’s majestic comeback. But when that time arrives, oh happy day.
Samantha Elin Tarzana