In <em>The Sound and the Fury</em>, the pear tree that is in the front yard plays an important role in the history of the Compson's family.
At the beginning of the story, we learn that the tree is associated with the innocence and camaraderie that exists among the children. The tree is a symbol of maternal love and reassurance, as shown by the fact that Benjy believes Caddy "smells like trees." However, the decline in morality of the family is mirrored by the decline of the tree. When Caddy becomes sexually active, the innocence of the family ends, and we learn that she "does not smell like trees" anymore.
