This picture was taken on the grounds of Briar Patch Inn while at the retreat by Marjorie Hilliard. Notice the "green man" face in the tree behind the subject.

The Green Man

The Green Man motif has many variations. Found in many cultures around the world, the Green Man is often related to natural vegetative deities springing up in different cultures throughout the ages. Primarily it is interpreted as a symbol of rebirth, or "renaissance," representing the cycle of growth each spring. Some speculate that the mythology of the Green Man developed independently in the traditions of separate ancient cultures and evolved into the wide variety of examples found throughout history.