Epicorma is an Australian bush metaphor for hope, resilience, and regeneration.
From time to time bush fire sweeps through the Australian bush. Plant and animal life is often destroyed in the process. Yet some trees seem to survive and recover from the ravages of fire. Among these are particular eucalyptus trees which have evolved a number of protective ‘epicormic processes.’ Some have a thick bark that is shed in the face of fire, releasing the Epicorma buds for growth. Others have protected bulbs at the base of the tree which again are released following fire. In both cases, new life is potentiated by fire.
Epicormic shoots. Photo: John O'Neil.
I think its a great metaphor that was shared with me many years ago by Daniel Beaver.
What does this metaphor evoke in you? What does this Epicorma metaphor mean to you?
