What do willow trees represent in literature?

Willow trees are often associated with a sense of loss, mourning, or sadness in literature. This is because willow trees have a tendency to grow in damp areas and are often seen near bodies of water, which are often associated with emotion. Additionally, the branches of willow trees are long and drooping, which can be seen as a symbol of sorrow. In some cultures, willow trees are even associated with death, as they are often seen growing in cemeteries.