Beehive (Poem): On Killing a Tree

Topics in this chapter

• Poem Meaning and Summary
• Process of Killing the Tree
• Tree Resilience and Regeneration
• Nature, Destruction, and Environment
• Poetic Devices and Imagery
• Tone, Irony, and Appreciation
• Structure, Climax, and Ending

Cheat sheet

Practice questions

1. Question 1Q-F72A65

   What does the poet mean by the phrase 'It takes much time to kill a tree'?

   1. A.A tree grows very slowly over the years.
   2. B.A tree is deeply rooted and resilient, making its destruction a slow and difficult process.
   3. C.The tools used for cutting trees are usually blunt.
   4. D.Trees possess supernatural powers to protect themselves.
   See the answer and solution
2. Question 2Q-A4705D

   What happens after the bark of the tree 'bleeds'?

   1. A.The tree completely dies and turns into ash.
   2. B.Miniature boughs and green twigs rise from close to the ground.
   3. C.The roots automatically snap underground.
   4. D.The leaves turn yellow and fall off permanently.
   See the answer and solution
3. Question 3Q-7494A8

   What is the 'root' referred to as in the context of finally killing the tree?

   1. A.The delicate source of the tree
   2. B.The white and wet, hidden anchor of the tree
   3. C.The dry, dead crust of the earth
   4. D.The temporary lifeline of a sapling
   See the answer and solution
4. Question 4Q-584986

   What is the tone of Gieve Patel's poem 'On Killing a Tree'?

   1. A.Playful and humorous
   2. B.Sarcastic and casual
   3. C.Ironic and matter-of-fact
   4. D.Romantic and praising
   See the answer and solution
5. Question 5Q-A7B10A

   Why must the root be 'pulled out entirely' to successfully kill a tree?

   1. A.Because the roots can be sold as timber.
   2. B.Because the root is the source of the tree's strength, hidden inside the earth.
   3. C.Because roots attract pests to the garden.
   4. D.Because leaving roots behind pollutes the groundwater.
   See the answer and solution