What is a gnarl?

A gnarl is a twist or knot in a tree's wood, often resulting from growth abnormalities, damage, or disease. It can appear as a bulge or distortion in the trunk or branches, giving the wood a unique and rugged appearance. In a broader sense, "gnarl" can also refer to any twisted or knotted form in nature or art. Additionally, it is sometimes used metaphorically to describe something complex or tangled.