On Killing a Tree
Class 9 CBSE English | Notes, Summary, and Study Material
đź“‘ Table of Contents
đź“– Summary
“On Killing a Tree” by Gieve Patel explains that killing a tree is not simple. A tree grows slowly over years, absorbing sunlight, air, water, and nutrients from the earth. Its bark may bleed when cut, but it can heal and sprout new shoots. Simply hacking or chopping does not destroy it.
The poem emphasizes that to truly kill a tree, its roots must be uprooted, exposing the tree’s core, which is sensitive and hidden underground. Only after uprooting, scorching, and drying can the tree be killed completely. The poem highlights the resilience and life force of trees, symbolizing nature’s strength and the care required to protect it.
🌟 Themes
- Resilience and vitality of nature.
- Human impact on the environment and deforestation.
- Patience and the slow passage of natural growth.
- Respect for life and ecological awareness.
🎯 Moral / Message
The poem teaches that life, whether in trees or humans, is resilient and cannot be destroyed easily. It emphasizes the need to respect nature, highlighting the hidden strength of life and the consequences of careless destruction.
đź“Ś Important Question-Answers
Q1. Can a “simple jab of the knife” kill a tree? Why not?
👉 No. A tree has grown over years and heals itself. Cutting the bark only wounds it temporarily.
Q2. How does the tree grow to its full size?
👉 It absorbs sunlight, air, water, and nutrients from the earth and gradually builds its strength over years.
Q3. What does “bleeding bark” mean?
👉 The bark of a tree oozes sap when cut, resembling bleeding, which is a natural defense and healing process.
Q4. What is meant by “anchoring earth” and “earth-cave”?
👉 These refer to the soil and underground space where the tree’s roots are embedded, holding it securely.
Q5. How is a tree finally killed according to the poem?
👉 By uprooting it completely, exposing its sensitive core, and then scorching, drying, and destroying it.
✨ Quick Revision Points
- Poem: On Killing a Tree
- Author: Gieve Patel
- Theme: Resilience of nature and life
- Key Idea: Trees cannot be killed easily; their roots and core must be destroyed
- Message: Respect for nature and awareness of its hidden strength