Feda Zayyad, Gaza
In Gaza, the Bougainvillea is called “The Crazy Tree”. This name has been in my memory since long time ago. It intertwines with walks to school and childhood games. Its vibrant leaves were the centerpiece in our pretend weddings. Our small hands scattered joyfully.
Its blossoms draw your attention immediately. It falls in winter only to burst into color again in spring and summer.
The tree looks as if calling the passers-by to stand under it on Lovers’ Street, as you make your way to Haidar Roundabout. You’ll spot it in various forms near the Palestine Stadium, particularly by the Council of Ministers, and again on the Turabi Street as you return from Sudanese Beach. It even greets you before you reach the Al-Azhar intersection.
You’ll find it on the Kinz Street (Treasure Street), too, and every time you photograph it, you can’t help but sing, “This old tree we once disliked, now I love you, and /I’ve missed you”.
While there may be scientific reasons for its name, “The Crazy Tree”, nothing captures its essence quite like the fact that in Gaza, “The Crazy Tree” is a synonym for “Gaza” itself.
This photo of the Crazy Tree in Gaza stands as a poignant reminder that, despite the destruction caused by the war, this tree with our memories in mind will stay there inspite of all this madness.
Photo from North Gaza/ April 2024
Gaza/ #Seasons_of_Awe_and_Struggles_to_Survive
فصول_الدهشة_ومحاولات_النجاة#
Fidaa Zayyad
