Time in a Tree, a new song from the remarkably talented British singer/actor Raleigh Ritchie speaks to us all. Admittedly I randomly stumbled upon this tune while searching YouTube for the latest spoiler videos for HBO’s Game of Thrones television series. Indeed, I had scarce information about the singer, Raleigh Ritchie, except having seen him playing the pivotal role of Grey Worm in said television series. Purely out of sheer curiosity, I clicked play.
Time in a Tree opens with a playful quality. Raleigh Ritchie character steps into an elevator and the mood shifts to one of introspection. In his hands, he’s holding a small potted-tree. As the story progresses, other people enter and exit the elevator. It becomes clear that they all represent different times in the development of the central character’s life. In effect, he’s bearing witness to moments from his past. In some cases he intentionally interacts with younger versions of himself. Particularly poignant was a moment where he reached out to his 14 year old disaffected self, and struggled to pull him into an embrace. He was giving the love and reassurance his 14 year old self desperately needed. Powerful stuff.
I just want time in a tree. I need a place just for me. Somewhere that I can be free. Keep the faith and just be what you’ll be.
It’ll take a village to make a man of me.
– Raleigh Ritchie
Although the action of the video takes place in the confined setting of an elevator, the dramatic impact is expansive. One can’t help but be drawn into the transcendent representation of introspection. The lyrical storytelling, the nuanced emotionally raw and vulnerable delivery of the vocals, and the urgency of the acting seamlessly work as one to leave viewers contemplating their own life stories. As a parent, I couldn’t help looking to my children to reassess our relationships. 21st century fast-paced family life often doesn’t provide breaks to reconnect with one another. I’m thankful for the opportunity to take action to course correct.
P.S. In the music video, take note of the numbers on the right of the elevator entrance. As the music video progresses, they change to reflect the different ages in the character’s life. It’s a subtle but nice touch.
Time in a Tree
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