On Killing a Tree

Solutions

I.

1. Can a “simple jab of the knife” kill a tree? Why not?
No, a simple jab of a knife cannot kill a tree because a tree is strong and deeply rooted in the earth. It has grown over many years by absorbing sunlight, water, and nutrients from the soil. Even if it is cut slightly, it can grow again. Therefore, destroying a tree completely requires much more effort.

2. How has the tree grown to its full size? List the words suggestive of its life and activity.
The tree has grown slowly over many years by taking nourishment from the earth, sunlight, air, and water. The poet shows its life and activity through words such as “consuming the earth,” “rising out of it,” “feeding upon its crust,” and “absorbing years of sunlight, air, water.” These expressions show that the tree is a living and continuously growing organism.

3. What is the meaning of “bleeding bark”? What makes it bleed?
“Bleeding bark” refers to the sap that comes out of the tree when it is cut. When the tree is injured by an axe or knife, its outer covering breaks and sap flows out like blood from a wound. This comparison shows that the tree is alive just like a human being.

4. The poet says “No” in the beginning of the third stanza. What does he mean by this?
By saying “No,” the poet rejects the idea that merely cutting the trunk is enough to kill a tree. He explains that the tree will grow again unless it is completely uprooted. The word emphasizes that destroying nature is not easy because trees possess great strength and the ability to regenerate.

5. What is the meaning of “anchoring earth” and “earth cave”?
“Anchoring earth” refers to the soil that firmly holds the roots of the tree and keeps it standing strong.
“Earth cave” means the underground space where the roots remain hidden deep inside the soil. These expressions highlight how strongly the tree is connected to the earth.

6. What does he mean by “the strength of the tree exposed”?
This phrase means that when the tree is uprooted, its hidden roots are pulled out and exposed to sunlight and air. The roots are actually the source of the tree’s strength. Once they are exposed and separated from the soil, the tree loses its power to survive.

7. What finally kills the tree?
The tree finally dies when it is completely uprooted from the earth and its roots are exposed to the sun and air. Without soil and nourishment, the roots dry up, and the tree slowly withers and dies.