Her zealous hope of Heaven made it hell there.
by Denis Johnson
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In "Tree of Smoke," the character's intense desire for a better existence in Heaven ironically transforms their experiences on Earth into a form of suffering. This longing reveals the complexity of hope, suggesting that when one yearns excessively for something beyond reach, it can lead to disillusionment and anguish in the present. This paradox illustrates a profound struggle between aspiration and reality. The hope for an ideal state can overshadow the beauty and value of current experiences, leading to a kind of emotional turmoil. This tension serves as a commentary on the nature of hope itself, reflecting how it can sometimes become a burden rather than a source of solace.

In "Tree of Smoke," the character's intense desire for a better existence in Heaven ironically transforms their experiences on Earth into a form of suffering. This longing reveals the complexity of hope, suggesting that when one yearns excessively for something beyond reach, it can lead to disillusionment and anguish in the present.

This paradox illustrates a profound struggle between aspiration and reality. The hope for an ideal state can overshadow the beauty and value of current experiences, leading to a kind of emotional turmoil. This tension serves as a commentary on the nature of hope itself, reflecting how it can sometimes become a burden rather than a source of solace.

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