Give four functions which a tree performs on this earth from the lesson of the heart of the tree
Answers
1.
To grow back after suffering a loss (just like
a lizard undergoes regeneration after losing its tail and a new one grown back
in its place).
2.
To breathe fresh energy or life into something.
Looking
at the poem from both the perspectives, the theme of regeneration runs strong
in the poem.
For instance, when a tree is planted, the person is not just planting one tree, but, as the poet points out, he is also planting the ‘seed and bud of days to be’. This means that a single tree has the potential to generate many seeds and buds, which in turn can grow into a forest. Thus, one tree leads to multiple trees. It is the regeneration of green forested area.
Similarly, with time, things and events become ‘history’, which is often forgotten. However, with a tree, the poet hopes to plant ‘a forest’s heritage’, suggesting that the tree will help bring heritage to life. He further states that he is planting the ‘harvest of a coming age’. The tree thus serves multiple purposes and yet has a harvest to offer to the future generations of humans. The tree will give ‘joy’ to the humans and vitalize their lives. For each harvest season, the tree will put out flowers, fruits and seeds (which will again grow into new trees). The tree thus, keeps the process of regeneration going.
The second stanza also shows the connection between ‘cool shade and tender rain’. It rains where there are trees and trees grow where it rains. It is a cyclic relation, which also suggests growth and regeneration.As far as providing shelter is concerned the poet thinks of the tree in terms of ‘a home to heaven anigh’, suggesting that it is but natural for the tree to be a home to many birds. It is the resting place of birds especially after twilight, when one can hear the ‘song and mother-croon’ of birds. The tree offers a natural habitat to the winged creatures in accordance with ‘heaven’s harmony’. The tree also protects birds, animals and humans from the scorching sun, as it provides ‘cool shade’.
The tree is also a source of food. It produces ‘seed and bud’, which further produce fruit. The poet uses the word ‘harvest’ to suggest an abundance of fruit. The poet skillfully connects the idea of planting a tree to positive things like regeneration, food and shelter and inspires the reader to look beyond the simple act of growing a sapling.