Hawthorn blooms

Between the Lines: Hawthorn, Hope, and Storytelling

Hiya,

Here in the northern hemisphere, autumn has painted our surroundings with its rich palette of golds, reds, and oranges. The days are growing colder, and the nights are drawing in faster, and I coorie ever deeper into my heavy knit cardigan… It’s hard not to reflect on summer’s sunnier, vibrant moments.

Today, for Cee’s FOTD, I bring you a bloom from summers past – the gentle and serene hawthorn blossom. It’s a breath of fresh air.

Bonus Things in Scots: hawthorn bloom is haw-tree flourish in the Scots Leid

These dainty hawthorn blossoms, with their soft petals sprinkled with hints of pink, are nature’s reminder of the simple joys in life.

Hawthorn in Folklore: Roots in Religion and Myth

This unassuming tree explodes into a confetti of white blooms, turning hedgerows and gardens into realms of wonder. It’s easy to see how these blooms play such a vital role in folklore and earth-based religions. They’re often associated with protection and love.

Stories Amongst the Petals: Finding Inspiration in Hawthorn Blooms

On my walks, I always leave myself open to inspirations that could weave their way into my stories. And this one? It feels like a symbol of hope, something my characters often find themselves in dire need of… a lot.

The Midpoint Elegance: How Hawthorn Mirrors a Story’s Pivotal Moment

The hawthorn’s understated elegance and simplistic beauty remind me of the midpoint of a story. Right at the midpoint, right in the middle of the chaos of the story, there’s a moment. It’s a moment of simple clarity. An insight into the bad guy, realising who the real antagonist is, or even a moment of self-reflection.

This moment is pivotal in stories, and it’s often understated—a line of dialogue, a photo. And just like those moments, these blossoms stand out in their own quiet, captivating way.

Winter’s Approach: Holding onto Hawthorn’s Warmth

As we wrap ourselves in layers and enjoy hot drinks during the ever-colder seasons, let this photo remind us of nature’s ever-rotating cycle. Even in the midst of winter’s embrace, we can find warmth and beauty in memories like these.

Echoes of Nature’s Past: Your Stories

Have you stumbled upon natural treasures that have left a lasting impression? Let me know below. I’d love to hear about them.

Wishing you a day as serene as this blossom.

Keep finding beauty in the small things,

Susan

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Hi! I’m Scottish author Susan Tippett Braithwaite. I craft romantic suspense stories featuring Sex, Lies, Scots & Spies where danger and desire meet with explosive results.

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7 responses to “Between the Lines: Hawthorn, Hope, and Storytelling

  1. anonymous Avatar

    Hiya,

    Here in the northern hemisphere, autumn has painted our surroundings with its rich palette of golds, reds, and oranges. The days are growing colder, and the nights are drawing in faster, and I…

  2. Chris Hall Avatar

    How interesting. I didn’t know about the significance of the hawthorn. Isn’t it beautiful? I am very lucky that I have one too.

    1. Susan T. Braithwaite Avatar

      It really is beautiful. I love that you have your very own hawthorn! Spiritual uses and meanings of trees, flowers, herbs, etc. is one of my favourite things.

  3. Cee Neuner Avatar

    Gorgeous blossoms 😀 😀

  4. matthewjrichardson Avatar

    A beautiful piece of nature writing Susan!

    1. Susan T. Braithwaite Avatar

      Thank you, Matthew!

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