Question

(a) Explain 'earth-cave' as used in the poem.

(b) when the strength of the tree is exposed

which word is opposite to the word partially.

what is the source of strength of the tree.​

Answer 1

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

Answer:

No, a simple jab of the knife cannot kill a tree. A tree takes many years to grow to its full size by absorbing sunlight, air and water. The roots of the tree grow deep and hold it firmly in the soil. So, only a chop cannot kill the tree because it will slowly heal up and grow to its original shape and size.

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

Answer:

The tree grows to its full size by consuming nourishment from the earth's crust and absorbing sunlight, water, and air for several years.

The words suggestive of the tree's life and activity are:

grown slowly consuming the earth

rising out of it

feeding upon its crust

absorbing years of sunlight, air, water

sprouting leaves

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

Answer:

Bleeding bark refers to seeping of the sap like substance from a part of the tree trunk where it has been hit with the axe. The tree is said to bleed when it is chopped, hacked or jabbed at.

Here, the poet wants to convey a message that just like the human beings feel pain and start to bleed when cut, trees also feel pain when cut or chopped.

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

Answer:

The poet has said “No” to lay emphasis on the fact that mere chopping or hacking would not kill the tree. It would grow again and retain its original size.

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

Answer:

“Anchoring earth” means that the earth protects the tree by holding it firmly by its roots.

“Earth cave” refers to the deep area under the ground that holds the roots and keeps the tree standing tall and protects it from adversities such as heavy rainfall or storm. It also nourishes the tree by providing it all the essential ingredients.

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

Answer:

The strength of the tree lies in its roots. Thus, the phrase “the strength of the tree exposed” refers to the roots of the tree being exposed to sunlight and air after pulling the tree out of the ground. This would ultimately lead to the death of the tree.

7. What finally kills the tree?

Answer:

The tree is finally killed by pulling out of the mother earth. When its roots are exposed to sunlight and air, the tree begins to get scorched and choked. It then starts withering. It becomes brown, dry and hard. Eventually, it dies.

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