A thorny story

I share a tree with a story to tell: We were out for a walk round Dufton Pike when this straggly hawthorn conveyed its spell, holding my gaze on our afternoon hike. A closer study showed not one but two thorns twisted, contorted in a struggle, their limbs, their joints entwined and tangled through a wrestling of arms that writhe and tussle. Or might this be some sibling rivalry played out for decades to all those who pass this way? A contest to show how vitally rivals arise competing to outclass. Best not to draw too close lest I get caught in this thicket of thorns without support. Sorry I can't post the photo.(/em>