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Editor's Letter<br />
The Woeful, Yet Wondrous<br />
Cherry Blossom Trees<br />
As a nature enthusiast I’m always on a quest to<br />
discover the fauna and flora of new landscapes. It is what drives<br />
my globetrotting adventures. With each and every destination, I<br />
naturally discover a wonderland of diversity that I’ve never before<br />
seen, adding to my virtual encyclopedia of species of flowers, and trees, and<br />
shrubs, and roots, and the cohabitation of the fauna that thrives within. Along<br />
with the wonders of nature there is also the cultural perspectives and folklore that<br />
accompany the regional habitat. Being a natural storyteller, this combination has<br />
always fascinated me! The roles plants and animals have in human culture can<br />
provide insights into each society’s values.<br />
This spring season, in Jeollabuk-do, I gaze upon the infamous cherry blossom tree for<br />
the very first time. Its majestic beauty and fragility leaves me speechless, however,<br />
some of its cultural perspectives are worthy of discussion. As the editor for this spring<br />
issue, I excitedly proposed the theme of cherry blossoms, but was cautioned that the<br />
topic might be offensive to those who associate the trees with the sad memories of an<br />
unjust war. As sensitive as I am to those haunting recollections, I am also certain that<br />
perspectives change as modernity evolves. It is this perplexing dichotomy that inspires<br />
much of the content of this revamped <strong>JB</strong> Life issue.<br />
Our examination of South Korea’s cherry blossom trees is one of a glorious redemption,<br />
from the rubble of war to a blooming tribute of national pride. While their origins<br />
and history belong to a past that cannot be forgotten, their blossoms contribute to<br />
a thriving retail economy, tourism industry, and an oral history that tells the tale of<br />
the woeful, yet wondrous cherry blossom trees. Captured by poets, photographers,<br />
writers, and cherry blossom admirers, this multi-perspective journey is a celebration<br />
of South Korea’s most beloved tree. Enjoy!<br />
Marchell Williams<br />
<strong>JB</strong> Life Editor<br />
6 Jeonbuk Life! <strong>Magazine</strong> / <strong>Spring</strong> <strong>2018</strong> • Issue 10
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