Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar resonates deeply with many, and for some, that resonance extends to ink. The novel’s powerful fig tree metaphor, depicting life’s overwhelming choices, has inspired a unique and thoughtful tattoo trend: the Fig Tree Tattoo. One individual’s journey to getting this symbolic artwork began with a personal connection to Plath’s words and evolved into a beautiful expression of self. This is the story of that journey, and an exploration of why the fig tree has become such a compelling image for body art.
The Allure of the Fig Tree Tattoo: Symbolism and Meaning
The fig tree, beyond its literary significance, carries rich symbolism across cultures. Often associated with abundance, fertility, and peace, the fig tree can represent different things to different people. In the context of Plath’s The Bell Jar, the fig tree becomes a potent symbol of life’s myriad possibilities and the paralysis of choice. The famous passage illustrates a woman overwhelmed by potential futures, unable to choose and fearing the loss of paths not taken. This resonates with anyone who has felt the weight of decisions and the anxiety of “what if.”
For a tattoo, this symbolism translates beautifully. A fig tree tattoo can represent:
- Personal Growth and Potential: The branching nature of the tree and the abundance of figs symbolize the many directions life can take and the potential for growth in each.
- Resilience and Strength: Fig trees are known for their hardiness, able to thrive in challenging conditions. This can be a powerful symbol of personal resilience.
- Introspection and Choice: Reflecting on Plath’s metaphor, the tattoo can serve as a reminder of the complexities of decision-making and the importance of self-awareness in navigating life’s choices.
- Connection to Literature and Art: For literary enthusiasts, a fig tree tattoo is a subtle nod to a beloved novel and a powerful piece of writing.
Finding Inspiration in Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar
The original inspiration for this tattoo comes directly from The Bell Jar. The author recounts the moment the fig tree passage from the book truly clicked:
I saw my life branching out before me like the green fig tree in the story. From the tip of every branch, like a fat purple fig, a wonderful future beckoned and winked. One fig was a husband and a happy home and children, and another fig was a famous poet and another fig was a brilliant professor, and another fig was Ee Gee, the amazing editor, and another fig was Europe and Africa and South America, and another fig was Constantin and Socrates and Attila and a pack of other lovers with queer names and offbeat professions, and another fig was an Olympic lady crew champion, and beyond and above these figs were many more figs I couldn’t quite make out. I saw myself sitting in the crotch of this fig tree, starving to death, just because I couldn’t make up my mind which of the figs I would choose. I wanted each and every one of them, but choosing one meant losing all the rest, and, as I sat there, unable to decide, the figs began to wrinkle and go black, and, one by one, they plopped to the ground at my feet.
This evocative imagery is the heart of the fig tree tattoo’s appeal for many. It’s a visual representation of internal conflict, ambition, and the bittersweet nature of choice. The quote itself, though lengthy for a tattoo, encapsulates a feeling many resonate with, making the fig tree a perfect symbolic stand-in.
Designing Your Fig Tree Tattoo: Ideas and Styles
Fig tree tattoos offer a wide range of design possibilities, from realistic depictions to more abstract interpretations. Consider these ideas when envisioning your own fig tree tattoo:
- Realism vs. Stylization: A realistic fig tree tattoo can showcase the intricate details of the leaves and fruit, while a stylized design can focus on the tree’s silhouette or branch structure.
- Blackwork: Bold black lines create a striking and timeless look, as seen in the featured tattoo. Blackwork fig tree tattoos are impactful and visually strong.
- Minimalist: A simple outline of a fig leaf or a delicate branch can be a subtle and elegant representation of the fig tree.
- Watercolor: Soft washes of color can bring a dreamy and artistic quality to a fig tree tattoo, emphasizing the organic nature of the imagery.
- Incorporating Figs: You can choose to highlight the figs themselves, either ripe and full or perhaps withering, depending on the specific symbolism you want to convey.
- Placement: Fig tree tattoos can work well in various locations, from the arm and leg to the back or ribs. The placement can influence the size and detail of the design.
A black ink fig tree tattoo on an arm, inspired by Sylvia Plath’s “The Bell Jar,” created by Tine DeFiore at Black Oak Tattoo, showcasing intricate linework and botanical detail.
The Journey to Getting Inked: A Personal Story
For the author, the idea of a fig tree tattoo simmered for years. Inspired by The Bell Jar and the powerful imagery of the fig tree passage, the concept first emerged during a trip to Thailand. While befriending tattoo artists in Chiang Mai, the idea of getting a tattoo as a memento arose. The fig tree, already a meaningful symbol, seemed like the perfect choice.
However, the timing wasn’t right. The author realized the fig tree tattoo needed to be “big, prominent, calculated,” a piece that required careful consideration and the right artist. Instead, a different, smaller tattoo was chosen, and “get a fig tattoo” was added to a life list, a goal for the future.
Years later, the desire resurfaced. A renewed determination to get the fig tree tattoo led to an extensive search for the perfect artist. The criteria were specific: a female artist specializing in blackwork, with a portfolio showcasing floral and botanical work. This careful selection process reflects the personal significance of the tattoo and the desire to find an artist who could truly bring the vision to life.
A close-up of a forearm featuring a Superman logo tattoo, a temporary tattoo choice made before the decision to pursue a larger, more meaningful fig tree tattoo.
Choosing the Right Artist and Style
The search culminated in finding Tine DeFiore of Black Oak Tattoo. Her blackwork style, her experience with botanical themes, and her location in Chicago made her an ideal choice. The author connected with DeFiore’s artistry and felt confident in her ability to create a fig tree tattoo that was both beautiful and meaningful.
The process of getting the tattoo was a journey in itself, from the initial consultation and sketch approval to the final inking. The six-month wait for an appointment highlights the demand for skilled artists and the importance of patience when seeking out the right person for a significant tattoo. The result, however, was worth the wait. The completed fig tree tattoo exceeded expectations, becoming a perfect embodiment of personal symbolism and artistic expression.
A detailed blackwork fig tattoo design sketch by Tine DeFiore, showcasing the artistic process and collaboration between the artist and client.
A Lasting Symbol
The fig tree tattoo is more than just an image; it’s a story etched in ink. It’s a testament to the power of literature, the weight of choices, and the beauty of personal expression. For those drawn to the symbolism of the fig tree and the poignant words of Sylvia Plath, this tattoo offers a unique and meaningful way to carry those inspirations with them. If you resonate with the themes of The Bell Jar and the rich symbolism of the fig tree, perhaps this is an idea to consider for your own tattoo journey.
The completed fig tree tattoo on a forearm, a black ink botanical design by Tine DeFiore, representing a personal journey inspired by literature and symbolism.
