On Killing a Tree Poem PDF

PDF Name	On Killing a Tree Poem
No. of Pages	4
PDF Size	0.41 MB
Language	English
PDF Category	Education & Jobs
Source / Credits	aees.gov.in
Uploaded By	Pradeep

On Killing a Tree Poem - Summary

On Killing a Tree PDF is a critical examination of humanity’s harshness towards nature, particularly in cutting down trees for agriculture, urbanization, and industrialization. While the poem may come across as a guide on ‘How to Kill a Tree’, it is actually a heartfelt plea to preserve trees. In the poem, “On Killing a Tree”, the poet vividly portrays the importance of trees, comparing their destruction to the “killing” of a human being. He explains that trees draw sunlight, water, air, and nutrients from the soil to grow big and strong.

The poem, “On Killing a Tree”, is written by Indian poet Gieve Patel. It serves as a protest against environmental destruction and is composed in stanzas of irregular length. The poem departs from traditional poetry forms, as it does not follow rhyme schemes or fixed meter, making it a perfect example of free verse.

Understanding the Message of On Killing a Tree

The essence of poetry lies in the message it conveys to the readers. Understanding the meaning behind “On Killing a Tree” allows readers to grasp the vital message of preserving nature. Each reader’s interpretation is unique, shaped by their personal views and experiences after reading this impactful poem.

On Killing a Tree Poem Questions and Answers

Question 1. Can a “simple jab of the knife” kill a tree? Why not?
Answer: No, a simple jab of a knife cannot kill a tree. It requires much more effort. If the roots are not fully removed from the earth, the tree will simply regrow.

Question 2. How has the tree grown to its full size? List the words suggestive of its life and activity.
Answer: The tree thrives by consuming the earth, rising from it while feeding on its nutrients. It absorbs years of sunlight, air, and water to grow.

Question 3. What is the meaning of “bleeding bark”? What makes it bleed?
Answer: ‘Bleeding bark’ refers to the sap that flows from the cuts made on the tree. Just like a cut on the human body bleeds, when a tree is harmed, it releases a liquid from the affected parts, showing its injury.

Question 4. The poet says “No” in the beginning of the third stanza. What does he mean by this?
Answer: The word ‘No’ emphasizes that simply chopping or hacking at a tree is not enough to kill it.

Question 5. What is the meaning of “anchoring earth” and “earth cave”?
Answer: These phrases suggest that the earth acts like a nurturing mother to the tree. ‘Earth Cave’ refers to the underground space that the roots spread into. The earth protects and nourishes the tree, providing all that it needs to survive.

You can easily download the On Killing a Tree Poem PDF using the link below.

RELATED PDF FILES