On-killing-a-tree–Class-9–English–Summary–questions-and-answers–CBSE-NCERT

 

SUMMARY – ON KILLING A TREE BY GIEVE PATEL

 

The poem “On Killing a Tree” is a strong statement about the cruelty of killing nature. The poet, Gieve Patel, explains that cutting a tree is not an easy task because a tree is full of life and strength. A simple knife blow cannot destroy it. The tree grows slowly by absorbing sunlight, air, and water from the earth. Even if its branches are cut, it sprouts new shoots again.

 

To truly kill a tree, one must pull it out completely from its roots—the true source of its strength. When the roots are exposed to sunlight and air, they dry up, turn brown, and die slowly. The poem symbolizes how humans destroy nature thoughtlessly and how difficult it is to kill something so deeply rooted in life. It teaches us to respect and protect nature instead of harming it.

 

GLOSSARY

 

Curled green twigs – Small, young, and bent branches.

 

Miniature boughs – Very small branches.

 

Anchoring earth – The soil that holds the roots firmly.

 

Absorbing years – The long process of taking nutrients and growing.

 

Leprous hide – Rough bark compared to diseased skin.

 

Scars – Marks left after being cut.

 

Bleeding bark – When sap oozes out after cutting.

 

Hack and chop – To cut roughly and repeatedly.

 

Pain – Suffering felt by the tree when injured.

 

Sprouting leaves – New leaves growing again.

 

Root – The underground part giving strength.

 

Pull out – Remove completely.

 

Strength of the tree – Its life source, the roots.

 

White and wet – Fresh roots when exposed.

 

The source – The origin of life (roots).

 

Scorching – Burning or drying heat.

 

Choking – Suffocation due to lack of air.

 

Sun and air – Natural elements that dry the uprooted tree.

 

Browning – Turning brown and lifeless.

 

Hardening – Becoming stiff after drying.

 

Twisting – Curling or bending in shape.

 

Withering – Drying and dying slowly.

 

Decay – To rot or decompose.

 

Sap – The liquid inside the tree, like blood.

 

Regeneration – The ability to grow again.

 

Endurance – Power to survive despite injury.

 

Sensitive – Easily affected or delicate.

 

Uprooted – Pulled out completely from the ground.

 

Destroy – To ruin or kill completely.

 

Symbol – A sign that represents a deeper meaning.

 

SHORT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

 

Q1. Who is the poet of “On Killing a Tree”?

 

Ans: The poem “On Killing a Tree” is written by Gieve Patel, an Indian poet, painter, and doctor. He uses the poem to show how trees represent life and strength and how humans destroy them without realizing the pain and damage caused to nature.

 

Q2. What is the main theme of the poem?

 

Ans: The main theme of the poem is the destruction of nature by humans. The poet shows that killing a tree is not easy because it has life, strength, and deep roots. The poem symbolizes the resilience of nature and the cruelty of human actions.

 

Q3. How does a tree grow according to the poet?

 

Ans: The poet says a tree grows slowly by absorbing sunlight, air, and water from the earth. Its roots spread deep into the soil and its trunk becomes thick and strong over the years. It takes years of nourishment and patience to grow fully.

 

Q4. Why does the poet say that hacking and chopping cannot kill a tree?

 

Ans: The poet explains that simply hacking and chopping a tree is not enough to kill it because it has deep roots and life within. Even if its branches are cut, new shoots will grow again, showing the tree’s strength and power to regenerate.

 

Q5. What happens when the bark of a tree is wounded?

 

Ans: When the bark of a tree is wounded, the sap flows out like blood, and after some time, new green leaves and branches start growing again. The tree heals itself, showing its endurance and strong connection with life and nature.

 

Q6. What is the real way to kill a tree?

 

Ans: According to the poet, the only way to truly kill a tree is to pull it out completely by its roots. Once the roots are exposed to sunlight and air, they dry up, harden, and die. The tree cannot grow again after that.

 

Q7. What does the “anchoring earth” refer to?

 

Ans: The “anchoring earth” refers to the soil that firmly holds the tree’s roots. It provides nourishment, strength, and stability to the tree, helping it grow tall and strong. It is the foundation of the tree’s life.

 

Q8. What happens when the roots are exposed to sunlight and air?

 

Ans: When the roots are exposed to sunlight and air, they start to dry up, turn brown, and harden. Without moisture, they lose life and die. This marks the real death of the tree, as it cannot regrow from dead roots.

 

Q9. What does the phrase “bleeding bark” mean?

 

Ans: “Bleeding bark” refers to the sap or juice that oozes out of a tree when its bark is cut or wounded. The poet compares it to human blood, showing that trees, like humans, also feel pain when they are harmed.

 

Q10. Why does the poet compare the bark to a leper’s skin?

 

Ans: The poet compares the bark to a leper’s skin because it is rough, uneven, and full of marks or scars. This comparison highlights the tree’s rough texture and also symbolizes the wounds and suffering caused by human cruelty.

 

Q11. What message does the poet want to convey through this poem?

 

Ans: The poet wants to convey the message that nature is powerful and full of life. Destroying it is not easy. Humans should stop cutting trees and understand the deep connection between nature and life, as harming it leads to self-destruction.

 

Q12. How is the tree’s life similar to human life?

 

Ans: The poet shows that a tree’s life is similar to human life because it also feels pain, bleeds, and grows slowly. Just as humans need care and nourishment, trees need sunlight, water, and air. Both suffer when hurt deeply.

 

Q13. What is the significance of the roots in the poem?

 

Ans: The roots are described as the most sensitive and vital part of the tree. They are the true source of its life and strength. By destroying the roots, the tree is completely killed, just as harming one’s foundation destroys life.

 

Q14. What does the poem symbolize?

 

Ans: The poem symbolizes the destruction of life and nature. The killing of a tree stands for the violence humans inflict on the environment. It also reflects how deeply rooted evils or habits in society cannot be destroyed easily.

 

Q15. Why is it difficult to kill a tree?

 

Ans: It is difficult to kill a tree because it has deep roots that continuously give life. Even after being cut, new leaves and branches sprout again. The tree’s life force is strong and cannot be destroyed by simple cutting.

 

Q16. What does the poet mean by “the strength of the tree exposed”?

 

Ans: The poet means that the true power and life of the tree lie in its roots. When the roots are pulled out and exposed to sunlight and air, their strength begins to fade. The exposure marks the slow death of the tree, ending its ability to grow again.

 

Q17. How does nature fight back when a tree is cut?

 

Ans: When a tree is cut, nature helps it heal and regrow. New shoots appear from the trunk or roots, and the bark heals over time. This shows the tree’s willpower and nature’s capacity to regenerate life, resisting complete destruction.

 

Q18. What role do the sun and air play in the death of a tree?

 

Ans: The sun and air dry out the uprooted roots, making them brown and lifeless. Without moisture, the roots harden and die, leading to the complete death of the tree. The poet shows how natural forces also play a part in the life cycle of destruction.

 

Q19. Why does the poet use violent words like “hack,” “chop,” and “kill”?

 

Ans: The poet uses harsh words like “hack,” “chop,” and “kill” to highlight human cruelty toward nature. These words create a violent image and make readers realize that cutting a tree is like committing a brutal act of murder against living beings.

 

Q20. What happens to the tree after it is completely uprooted?

 

Ans: Once the tree is completely uprooted, its roots dry up and decay. The green color fades, the wood hardens, and the tree withers. Over time, it loses all signs of life, showing that uprooting is the only way to end its existence.

 

Q21. How does the poet describe the process of the tree’s slow death?

 

Ans: The poet describes the tree’s slow death as a gradual drying and withering process. The roots, once pulled out, are left to face sunlight and air. Slowly, they lose moisture, turn brown, twist, and harden until the tree is lifeless.

 

Q22. What moral lesson does the poem teach?

 

Ans: The poem teaches the lesson that destroying nature is both cruel and difficult. Nature is powerful and full of life, and it fights back. Humans should respect and protect trees, as they are vital for the survival of the earth and humanity.

 

Q23. Why does the poet call the root “white and wet”?

 

Ans: The root is called “white and wet” because it lies hidden inside the soil, safe from sunlight and air. When pulled out, it appears moist and pale, showing that it is full of life and nutrients — the most vital part of the tree.

 

Q24. How is a tree’s life force similar to human endurance?

 

Ans: Like humans, a tree’s life force shows endurance and resilience. Even after being hurt or damaged, it continues to live and grow. This comparison symbolizes strength, patience, and the will to survive despite suffering or destruction.

 

Q25. Why does the poet say “it takes much time to kill a tree”?

 

Ans: The poet says so because a tree is deeply rooted in the earth. Cutting it down is not enough; it will grow again. Only by removing the roots can its life be ended. This shows the strength and stubbornness of nature’s life force.

 

Q26. What does the poet want to make readers realize through this poem?

 

Ans: The poet wants readers to realize that trees are living beings that feel pain and bleed when hurt. By describing their slow death, he makes people aware of the violence behind deforestation and encourages them to value and protect nature.

 

Q27. What happens to the color and shape of the tree after it dies?

 

Ans: After the tree dies, its green color fades and turns brown, and its wood becomes hard, dry, and twisted. The once lively tree loses all vitality and turns into a lifeless piece of wood, symbolizing the end of life.

 

Q28. What does the tree symbolize in the poem?

 

Ans: The tree symbolizes life, resilience, and nature’s power. It also represents deeply rooted habits or evils that cannot be easily destroyed. The poet uses the tree as a metaphor to show how life continues to resist destruction.

 

Q29. Why can’t a tree be killed by a simple knife blow?

 

Ans: A tree cannot be killed by a simple knife blow because its roots remain alive under the soil. Even if its trunk and branches are cut, new shoots will grow again. Its real strength lies underground, deep in the earth.

 

Q30. What feeling does the poem evoke in the reader?

 

Ans: The poem evokes a feeling of sympathy, respect, and guilt toward nature. Readers feel sorry for the suffering of trees and realize the cruelty of human actions. It encourages love and protection for trees, reminding us that harming nature is harming ourselves.

LONG QUESTION AND ANSWER

Q1. Describe the central idea of the poem “On Killing a Tree.”

The central idea of the poem is that killing a tree is not an easy task because it represents life, growth, and strength. The poet Gieve Patel wants to make readers aware of the cruelty and violence involved in destroying nature. A tree grows slowly by absorbing sunlight, air, and water. Even if it is cut, it heals and grows again, showing the tree’s resilience. The only way to completely kill it is to uproot it, which leads to its slow death. The poem is not only about a tree but also a symbol of human destruction of nature. Patel wants to remind people that harming trees is like killing a living being, and we must respect and protect them.

Q2. Why does the poet say that killing a tree takes much time?

The poet says that killing a tree takes much time because a tree is deeply rooted in the earth and full of life. It has grown slowly for years by absorbing nutrients, sunlight, and water. Cutting or chopping its trunk cannot destroy it, as new shoots will grow again. Its roots, hidden in the earth, provide life and energy. To truly kill a tree, the roots must be pulled out completely and exposed to sunlight and air. This process takes time, as the roots dry, harden, and wither slowly. Thus, the poet emphasizes the strength and endurance of nature, which cannot be easily destroyed.

Q3. What does the poet mean when he says “It takes much time to kill a tree”?

By saying this, the poet means that a tree cannot be destroyed quickly because it has deep roots that hold the essence of life. A single cut or blow cannot kill it. Even after being hacked or chopped, new leaves and branches grow again. The tree’s strength lies underground, hidden in its roots. Only when the roots are pulled out completely and left exposed to the sun and air will the tree die slowly. The poet uses this to show nature’s resilience and strength and to remind humans that destroying life is neither easy nor justified.

Q4. What steps are described in the poem to kill a tree completely?

The poet describes the cruel process of killing a tree completely. First, one must pull out the roots from the earth, as they are the true source of its strength. The roots, once out, are exposed to sunlight and air. Slowly, they begin to dry, harden, twist, and wither. Finally, the tree dies completely. Cutting the trunk or branches alone is not enough, as the tree will sprout new leaves again. The poet’s description is ironic and critical, showing the violence of human actions toward nature and urging readers to understand the pain involved in killing something so full of life.

Q5. How does the poet use irony in the poem?

The poem “On Killing a Tree” is full of irony. At first, it seems like a guide on how to kill a tree, but in truth, the poet wants to highlight the strength and endurance of nature. By describing the killing process in detail, he makes the reader feel the pain and cruelty of such an act. The violent words like “hack,” “chop,” and “pull out” show the brutality of human behavior. In reality, the poet is not teaching how to kill but showing that trees, like living beings, deserve respect. The irony helps emphasize the poem’s hidden message of environmental awareness.

Q6. How does a tree resist destruction, according to the poet?

According to the poet, a tree resists destruction because it has deep roots and strong life force. Even if the bark is wounded or the trunk is chopped, new leaves and branches will sprout again. The roots, hidden in the earth, keep sending nourishment to the tree, helping it heal and regrow. This shows the tree’s resilience and will to live, just like a living being. The poet wants to remind us that nature is powerful and cannot be easily destroyed. Even when harmed, it finds a way to grow again, teaching humans a lesson about endurance and strength.

Q7. Explain the significance of the title “On Killing a Tree.”

The title “On Killing a Tree” sounds simple but carries a deep and powerful meaning. It suggests the act of destroying a tree, but the poem is actually about the pain and difficulty of killing life itself. The poet, Gieve Patel, shows that a tree cannot be killed easily, as it has deep roots and strong life energy. The title is ironic because it exposes human cruelty while teaching respect for nature. The poem reminds readers that trees are living beings and that to kill one is a violent, almost murderous act. The title thus conveys both literal and symbolic meanings.

Q8. Why does the poet compare the bark to a leper’s skin?

The poet compares the bark of a tree to a leper’s skin to show its rough and patchy texture. Just like a person suffering from leprosy has scars and uneven skin, the tree’s bark also bears marks from years of growth and wounds. The comparison also suggests suffering and pain, showing that when humans harm trees, they cause deep scars, both physically and emotionally. The image makes readers feel pity for the tree and realize the cruelty of cutting it. It’s a powerful metaphor that gives the tree a human-like quality.

Q9. What happens when a tree is hacked and chopped?

When a tree is hacked and chopped, the bark bleeds sap, just like blood from a wound. However, this does not kill the tree. Soon, small green twigs and leaves begin to sprout again, showing that the tree’s life force is strong. The poet uses this to show the endurance and vitality of nature. The act of cutting a tree represents human violence, but nature resists it by healing and regrowing. The poet’s tone is ironic, making readers realize that no matter how much harm humans do, nature continues to fight back.

Q10. What role does the root play in the life of a tree?

The root is the most important and sensitive part of a tree. It is the source of life, strength, and nourishment. The tree’s survival depends on the root, as it absorbs water and nutrients from the earth. The poet calls it the “source” because it holds the tree firmly in the soil. When the root is pulled out and exposed to sunlight and air, it begins to dry and die, leading to the tree’s complete destruction. Through this, the poet shows that the root represents the foundation of life, and damaging it is like killing the very source of existence.

Q11. What message does Gieve Patel convey through this poem?

Through “On Killing a Tree,” Gieve Patel conveys a powerful message about the destruction of nature by human hands. He wants readers to understand that trees are living beings that grow, feel, and bleed when hurt. Cutting a tree is compared to an act of killing, showing the cruelty and violence involved. The poet reminds us that nature cannot be destroyed easily—it resists and survives. The poem is not only about trees but also a symbol of human ignorance and greed. Patel urges people to respect and protect nature, as harming it ultimately harms humanity itself.

Q12. How does the poet create sympathy for trees?

The poet creates sympathy for trees by describing them as living beings capable of feeling pain. Words like “bleeding bark” and “leprous hide” give human qualities to trees, making readers relate to their suffering. By comparing the sap to blood and describing the tree’s slow death, the poet makes us realize that killing a tree is a cruel and painful act. His tone is serious and emotional, urging readers to reflect on their actions. Through powerful imagery and personification, he succeeds in making readers feel compassion for trees.

Q13. How is the process of killing a tree symbolic of human destruction?

The process of killing a tree symbolizes human greed and destruction of nature. Just as one must pull out the tree’s roots to destroy it completely, humans also destroy the very foundation of nature for their selfish needs. The poem shows how we harm the environment without realizing the consequences. The slow death of the tree reflects the slow destruction of our planet. Gieve Patel uses this symbolism to criticize deforestation and environmental neglect, teaching that if we continue to harm nature, we are slowly killing ourselves too.

Q14. What does the poet mean by “the source, white and wet”?

By “the source, white and wet,” the poet refers to the roots of the tree, which are hidden under the earth. They are white and wet because they are full of moisture and life. When these roots are pulled out, they lose contact with the soil and begin to dry. The poet uses this image to show the sensitivity and importance of the roots, which are the foundation of life. Once the source of life is destroyed, the tree cannot survive, symbolizing the end of growth and vitality.

Q15. What lesson does the poem teach us about nature?

The poem teaches us that nature is powerful, patient, and full of life. It resists destruction and continues to grow even after being harmed. Gieve Patel reminds humans to respect and protect nature instead of exploiting it. The poem also shows that human violence against trees reflects our disregard for the environment. By comparing the act of cutting a tree to murder, the poet urges us to become more responsible. The main lesson is that destroying nature is equal to destroying life itself, and we must live in harmony with it.

Q16. How does the poet describe the growth of a tree?

 

The poet describes the growth of a tree as a slow, natural, and powerful process. A tree does not grow in a day—it takes years of absorbing sunlight, air, and water from the earth. The roots hold it firmly in the soil, and the trunk becomes thick and strong. The tree grows tall, spreading its branches and leaves, symbolizing life and energy. Gieve Patel uses this description to show how deeply connected a tree is to nature. Its growth represents patience, endurance, and strength. The poet indirectly compares this growth to human development—slow but full of struggle and persistence.

 

Q17. Why does the poet use violent imagery in the poem?

 

The poet uses violent imagery such as “hack,” “chop,” “pull out,” and “bleeding bark” to shock readers and make them realize the brutality of human actions against nature. By describing the killing of a tree in such violent terms, Gieve Patel wants us to feel the pain and cruelty involved. The harsh words also show that trees, like living beings, suffer when hurt. The poet’s real purpose is not to teach how to kill but to criticize such actions. The violence in the poem symbolizes human greed and insensitivity, reminding us that destroying nature is equal to committing violence against life.

 

Q18. What is the role of sunlight, air, and water in a tree’s life?

 

Sunlight, air, and water are the essential elements for a tree’s growth and survival. They provide nourishment, strength, and life to the tree. The roots absorb water and minerals from the soil, while the leaves take in sunlight and air for photosynthesis. This continuous process helps the tree grow tall and strong over the years. The poet mentions these elements to emphasize how nature itself supports and nurtures life. It also shows that a tree is deeply connected to the earth and sky. Without these elements, it cannot survive, highlighting the interdependence between nature’s forces.

 

Q19. What happens after the roots are pulled out of the earth?

 

When the roots are pulled out of the earth, the life of the tree begins to end slowly. The poet calls the roots “white and wet,” showing they are tender and full of life. Once exposed to the sun and air, they begin to dry, harden, twist, and wither. This gradual drying process symbolizes death. The tree loses its strength and dies completely. Gieve Patel uses this image to describe the final and most painful step in the killing of a tree. It is both a literal and symbolic death, representing how human actions destroy the life-giving force of nature.

 

Q20. Why does the poet say that the act of killing a tree is “to be done in stages”?

 

The poet says killing a tree is “to be done in stages” because it cannot be destroyed by a single cut. The tree has deep roots and strong life energy. First, its bark is hacked, then the trunk is cut, and even after this, new shoots appear. Only when the roots are pulled out and exposed to sunlight and air does the tree finally die. Each step is painful and cruel, symbolizing the slow death of nature at human hands. The phrase “in stages” also represents the gradual destruction of the environment caused by human greed and carelessness.

 

Q21. How does the poet portray the connection between man and nature?

 

The poet portrays the relationship between man and nature as unbalanced and violent. Humans, driven by greed, destroy trees and harm the environment without realizing the consequences. Through the act of killing a tree, Gieve Patel shows how humans misuse their power over nature. Instead of living in harmony, they cause pain and suffering to the very world that sustains them. However, the poem also shows nature’s resilience—it continues to fight back and heal itself. Patel’s message is clear: humans must learn respect and coexistence instead of domination and destruction.

 

Q22. What does the poet want readers to feel after reading the poem?

 

After reading the poem, the poet wants readers to feel sorrow, guilt, and awareness about the harm caused to nature. Through vivid and painful imagery, he makes readers realize that trees are living beings capable of suffering. The poet does not preach directly; instead, he describes the act of killing so realistically that it naturally creates sympathy for the tree. Readers begin to understand the importance of trees in our lives and the cruelty of destroying them. Patel’s aim is to awaken environmental consciousness and encourage people to protect, not destroy, the natural world.

 

Q23. How is the poem “On Killing a Tree” a protest against deforestation?

 

The poem is a strong protest against deforestation and environmental destruction. By describing the process of killing a tree as a violent and cruel act, the poet criticizes how humans cut down trees for selfish purposes. Each step in the poem—from hacking to uprooting—shows the pain inflicted on nature. Gieve Patel’s tone is not instructive but ironic, making readers reflect on their actions. The poem teaches that trees are living beings with strength and dignity. Destroying them is not just cutting wood; it’s destroying life itself. Thus, the poem becomes a powerful voice for nature’s protection.

 

Q24. How does the poet’s use of personification add depth to the poem?

 

The poet uses personification by giving human qualities to the tree—it bleeds, feels pain, and heals like a living being. This makes readers see the tree not as an object but as a life form deserving empathy and respect. Words like “bleeding bark” and “leprous hide” make us imagine the tree as a wounded creature. Through personification, Gieve Patel makes the reader emotionally connected to nature. It deepens the poem’s impact and strengthens its message that harming trees is an act of violence against life, not just against nature.

 

Q25. What does the poet mean by “The bleeding bark will heal”?

 

When the poet says “The bleeding bark will heal,” he means that trees are resilient and can recover from damage. Even if the bark is cut and the sap (like blood) oozes out, the tree does not die. Soon, new leaves and branches grow, covering the wounds. This shows the tree’s power to regenerate and survive despite human cruelty. Gieve Patel uses this line to highlight the strength and endurance of nature, which continues to live and heal itself. It’s also a message to humans that nature, though forgiving, should not be taken for granted.

 

Q26. Explain the transformation of the tree after being uprooted.

 

After being uprooted, the tree undergoes a painful transformation. Its roots, once hidden and protected underground, are exposed to sunlight and air. The roots start drying, hardening, and twisting until they wither completely. The tree loses all its strength and dies. This transformation symbolizes the slow death of nature when disconnected from its source—the earth. The poet uses this imagery to show how human actions lead to decay and destruction. The transformation is both physical and symbolic, representing the end of life and the loss of natural balance.

 

Q27. Why does the poet focus on the roots instead of the leaves or branches?

 

The poet focuses on the roots because they are the true source of life. Leaves and branches may be cut, but the tree continues to live as long as the roots remain untouched. The roots connect the tree to the earth and draw nourishment from it. By highlighting the roots, Gieve Patel emphasizes that destroying the foundation leads to complete death. Symbolically, this can also refer to the destruction of the roots of life and culture—once the base is gone, everything else collapses. It’s a reminder of how vital and sacred the foundation of life is.

 

Q28. How does the poem reflect human cruelty toward nature?

 

The poem reflects human cruelty through the violent language used to describe the killing of a tree. Words like “hack,” “chop,” “pull out,” and “scorching” show how mercilessly humans destroy nature. The poet paints this cruelty vividly to make us aware of our careless behavior toward the environment. Humans cut down trees for profit or convenience, ignoring their importance. By comparing the act to murder, Gieve Patel shows that such cruelty is not just against trees but against all living things. The poem becomes a powerful call for compassion and awareness toward nature.

 

Q29. How does the poem highlight the theme of regeneration and survival?

 

The poem highlights regeneration and survival through the tree’s ability to heal and grow again after being cut. Even when hacked or wounded, the tree sends up new shoots and branches. This symbolizes nature’s unbreakable spirit and power of renewal. Gieve Patel uses this theme to show that nature, despite human cruelty, continues to fight back. The poet reminds us that life cannot be destroyed easily—it always finds a way to survive. The theme of regeneration also reflects hope and resilience, teaching us that true strength lies in endurance and the will to live.

 

Q30. What moral lesson does “On Killing a Tree” give to readers?

 

The poem gives the moral lesson that destroying nature is a sin and an act of violence against life. Gieve Patel teaches that trees, like humans, are living beings that deserve respect and care. They provide us with oxygen, food, and shelter, yet we destroy them without thought. The poem warns that harming nature will ultimately harm humanity. It urges readers to protect the environment, plant more trees, and live in harmony with the natural world. The main moral is that we must respect life in all forms, because every living thing plays a vital role on Earth.