The Skeleton Tree

The novel uses animals as a means for the protagonist to discuss death and dying. The raven symbolizes death, while the salmon is a symbol of the life cycle, which begins and ends with dying. Salmon live predominately in the Pacific Northwest and along the Alaskan coast. These fish are born in fresh water, travel to the salty sea, and return to fresh water to spawn in the same location where they began their lives. They’re indicative of the life cycle that all creatures face, one filled with trials and long, arduous battles. As Chris watches the final journey of the salmon to their spawning area, the voyage inspires sadness and respect.

While grappling with the loss of his father and uncle, Chris comes to understand the inevitability and universality of death. The salmon are a symbolic, reoccurring presence in his journey toward healing. As he comes to understand the salmon and their perseverance and strength, he begins to think of death as an inevitable part of living. He buries trinkets that wash ashore, laying their former owners to rest by proxy. He buries a plank from Uncle Jack’s boat to represent burying his uncle.