Written: 1920

Published: Oct 1921 in Tryout

This is a brief story taking place in ancient Greece. Two brothers Musides and Kalos are the best sculptors in the land. To draw inspiration Kalos spends a lot of time in a certain grove said to be the habitation of triffids and nature spirits and the chosen haunt of Pan, his brother Musides being inspired by more traditional sources. They are asked to make a sculpture for a king in Syracuse and whoever makes the better work will receive high praise. They begin work gladly, working in happy competition against one another but also helping each other. Unfortunately tragedy strikes as Kalos becomes ill and dies. As his final request he wishes an olive branch from the special grove to be placed near his head in his grave. This being done the branch begins to grow into a mysterious tree…

Although only a minor work “The Tree” demonstrates Lovecraft’s ability to create atmosphere and suspense. Despite being a more Weird story, rather then a cosmic one the story has many of the recognizable techniques in the ways things are said and worded and small tell-tale signs here and there reminding you that this is a Lovecraft work. I would also have to say that in my opinion this little tale owes more to the Weird fiction of Algernon Blackwood then to the macabre or gothic work of E. A. Poe.