Besides the fact that traditional publishing uses ink on paper — which is of course derived from trees — the whole life process of a tree is an appropriate metaphor for the process of publishing. For all the steps of publishing — researching, compiling information, drafting ideas, scripting, writing, graphic design, editing, layout, printing, marketing, distribution, and result analytics — a living tree has comparable steps.
As a publisher, SereyJones compiles raw information, ideas, goals and plans (the tree draws nourishment from the earth and the air). SereyJones creates the content for the projects (the trunk processes the nutrients from the roots and the leaves). SereyJones produces, markets, distributes, or broadcasts the publishing project (the tree blossoms and produces fruit).
Although the tree metaphor shouldn’t be taken to the extreme, one specific aspect of the analogy is particularly fascinating. A tree can have a huge mass and weigh tons. However, only a very small percentage of its weight originates from the minerals and nutrients drawn from the earth by its roots. Ninety-five percent of the tree’s mass is from elements in the air. [interesting video]
So that also fits with publishing — creative thinking and originality appears to come from thin air. Energy spent for successful publishing can be said to be 5 percent information gathering combined with 95 percent compilation and content creation. The audience/customer interest and demand is the sunlight for photosynthesis to make the whole process worthwhile.