Class 9 English - RAJASTHAN
Poetry: On Killing a Tree
The chapter 'On Killing a Tree' by Gieve Patel is a thought-provoking poem prescribed for Class 9 students under the Rajasthan Board (RBSE). The poem uses the extended metaphor of killing a tree to highlight the cruelty of human destruction against nature. It teaches that a simple jab of a knife cannot kill a tree; instead, the tree has grown strong by consuming the earth, absorbing sunlight, air, and water over many years. To completely destroy it, one must pull out its sensitive, hidden root from the anchoring earth. For board exams, this chapter is crucial for testing critical thinking, poetic devices, and thematic understanding.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Deceptive Simplicity of Nature
The poem shows that a tree's survival is deeply rooted and resilient, proving that nature cannot be easily destroyed by superficial human actions.
Cruelty of Human Action
The poet uses violent imagery like 'leprous hide', 'bleeding bark', and 'choking' to expose the ruthless and painful nature of deforestation.
The Power of Roots
The root is described as the 'source' and the most sensitive, hidden part that anchors the tree to the earth, giving it life and strength.
Extended Metaphor
The act of killing a tree is used as a metaphor for uprooting evil or destroying something completely, requiring persistent and deep effort.
Free Verse Structure
The poem is written in free verse with no strict rhyme scheme or meter, which gives it a serious, conversational, and impactful tone.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Rajasthan Board (RBSE) Class 9 English exams, this chapter typically carries around 4 to 6 marks. Common question types include short answer questions based on the central theme, reference to context (RTC) from stanzas, and long-answer questions discussing the poet's message about environmental conservation and human cruelty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't a simple jab of the knife kill a tree?
A simple jab of a knife cannot kill a tree because it has grown slowly consuming the earth, and out of its hide bleeding bark will heal and green twigs will rise again.
What is the most sensitive and hidden part of the tree?
The root, which is white and wet and hidden inside the earth for years, is the most sensitive and hidden part of the tree.
What is the central theme of the poem 'On Killing a Tree'?
The central theme is the immense resilience of nature and a sharp criticism of human apathy and destruction toward trees and the environment.
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