On Killing a Tree - NCERT Class 9, Chapter 7, Poem - Summary, Questions, Answers, Extra Questions

Summary of On Killing a Tree

'On Killing a Tree' by Gieve Patel is a poignant poem that describes the process of uprooting a tree, symbolizing how deep-rooted entities cannot be destroyed easily. The tree grows slowly by absorbing the nutrients from the earth, and simply cutting it is not enough to kill it. The poem highlights the need to remove the roots completely to ensure the tree’s destruction. The poem serves as a metaphor for resilience and survival.

On Killing a Tree (Hindi Summary)

'On Killing a Tree' कविता गीव पटेल द्वारा लिखी गई है, जो यह दर्शाती है कि एक पेड़ को पूरी तरह से नष्ट करना आसान नहीं है। पेड़ धीरे-धीरे पृथ्वी से पोषक तत्वों को अवशोषित करके बढ़ता है, और इसे काट देना ही इसे मारने के लिए पर्याप्त नहीं है। पेड़ को पूरी तरह से नष्ट करने के लिए उसकी जड़ों को उखाड़ना जरूरी है। यह कविता दृढ़ता और अस्तित्व का प्रतीक है।

Thinking about the Poem

1. Can a “simple jab of the knife” kill a tree? Why not?

No, a simple jab of the knife cannot kill a tree. A tree is deeply rooted in the earth, and its life force is sustained by the roots. Even if its surface is cut, the tree will continue to grow unless it is uprooted completely.

2. How has the tree grown to its full size? List the words suggestive of its life and activity.

The tree has grown to its full size by absorbing sunlight, air, and water from the earth for many years. Words like “grown slowly consuming the earth,” “rising out of it,” and “feeding upon its crust” suggest the tree’s life and growth.

3. What is the meaning of “bleeding bark”? What makes it bleed?

The “bleeding bark” refers to the sap that oozes out when the tree’s bark is cut. The tree “bleeds” because the outer surface is damaged, but this does not kill the tree; it continues to live through its roots.

4. The poet says “No” in the beginning of the third stanza. What does he mean by this?

The poet says “No” to emphasize that merely cutting the tree’s surface or its bark will not kill it. He is explaining that something more drastic must be done, like pulling the tree out by its roots, to truly kill it.

5. What is the meaning of “anchoring earth” and “earth cave”?

“Anchoring earth” refers to the earth that holds the tree securely by its roots, providing it with support and nourishment. “Earth cave” refers to the space in the earth where the roots of the tree are hidden deep inside.

6. What does he mean by “the strength of the tree exposed”?

The “strength of the tree exposed” means that when the tree is uprooted, the roots, which are the source of the tree’s strength and life, are brought to the surface and are laid bare. Without the protection of the earth, the tree cannot survive.

7. What finally kills the tree?

What finally kills the tree is when it is completely uprooted from the ground, exposing its roots to the sun and air. The roots dry up, and the tree gradually withers and dies, losing all its strength and life.

About the Author

Gieve Patel is an Indian poet, playwright, and painter. His poem 'On Killing a Tree' brings out a deep understanding of nature and survival. Through his works, Patel often explores themes of human existence, the environment, and the interconnectedness of life.