Oooh, I like this one very much. I like the question of "will the trees remember our names", especially within the context of a wood we know so well. The rebirth at the end with the saplings is a great reminder that fire doesn't only bring destruction, but in some cases, is necessary for new beginnings to quite literally take root.

love the folk structure and premise of this song, great lyrics to tell stories and bring gratitude to trees! Nice collaboration!

Really beautiful, I like the point and perspective of the lyrics and your melody is reassuring and comfortable.

Will the Trees Remember Our Names
by Tamora Wilson and Laurie Easterling © 12/20/2020 New York, NY and Oak Ridge, TN

Photo by Tamora Wilson, Appalachian Trail near NYC

I’ve been a part of this forest
As long as I can remember
I know every brook and tree
Hiked through her valleys and hills
January through December
She feels like a mother to me

I’ve learned how to read wildfires
Fighting flames far from my home
Now I teach all I’ve seen
As I lead a group up the ridge
I see the smoke and grab my phone
Not too late to call in the team

Chorus:
Will the trees remember our names
We fight to save them from the flames
Hold us in their memories
As the years become centuries
Will the trees remember our names

We all don our gear and grab shovels
The fire grows like it’s alive
My students tremble at the sight
Branches start to burn overhead
As the rest of the team arrives
We will battle through the night

Chorus

Bridge:
Though scarred the forest will survive
She nurtures saplings through the winter
Whispering stories of history
Rebuilding the network together

Chorus

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