Chapter 14
1. The poet has given a touching account of a tree which has been cut down. Don't you think that this is a sad poem in memory of a felled tree?
Ans; Yes, this is definitely a sad poem. The poet mourns the loss of a tree that once stood strong and full of life. Through vivid descriptions of its branches, leaves, and presence, the poet evokes feelings of grief and helplessness. It is like remembering a dear friend or family member after their death. The poem makes us realize the emotional and environmental loss caused by felling a tree.
2. Why has the poet indulged in reminiscences? Has anything ever compelled you to reminisce?
Ans; The poet indulges in reminiscences because she feels a deep emotional connection to the tree. The tree was part of her surroundings and memories; its absence creates a void. By recalling moments spent under its shade or near it, she honors its existence.
Yes, I have been compelled to reminisce when I lost something or someone important to me—like an old pet, a family home, or a place filled with childhood memories. Reminiscence is a natural way of holding on to what’s gone.
3. What does 'the wind know and what the wind blowing a din' suggest?
Ans; This phrase suggests that the wind is aware of the pain and the stories of the felled tree. The “din” (noise) made by the blowing wind represents the loud cries or the chaotic disturbance caused by the tree’s destruction. It implies that nature itself reacts and mourns when such harm is done to it.
4. "Many a man is blunt, so blunt, / He doesn't even sense the agonies caught / Even in simple words." Explain the lines.
Ans; These lines criticize people who are insensitive and lack empathy. The poet says that some people are so emotionally dull that they fail to understand the pain hidden even in simple expressions. It shows frustration at how humans ignore or fail to feel the suffering of nature, even when it is plainly visible or described.
5. Justify the title of the poem.
Ans; The title “Sound” is symbolic. It refers to the sound of the tree being cut, the sound of the wind mourning, and the silent cries of nature. It also symbolizes the “voice” of the tree which cannot speak but whose pain can still be felt by those who are sensitive. The sound captures both the physical act and the emotional echo of the tree’s loss.
6. The poem suggests that the writer of this poem is an environmentalist. She is deeply concerned with protecting and preserving the natural environment. Do you agree? Write your opinion.
Ans; Yes, I agree. The poet shows a deep emotional bond with the tree, treating it almost like a living, feeling being. Her grief at its loss and criticism of insensitive people reflect her concern for nature. Through the poem, she raises awareness about the careless destruction of the environment and urges readers to be more mindful and protective of trees.
7. ‘A lot of people are insensitive to the agonies of trees’. Comment.
Ans; This is sadly true. Many people see trees only as resources—wood, shade, fruit—but do not respect them as living beings. Trees take years to grow but are cut down in minutes, often without thought. People ignore the environmental impact, like loss of oxygen, beauty, and habitat. This poem reminds us to recognize the silent suffering caused by such insensitivity.
8. What is the theme of the poem? Could you suggest another title?
Ans;The main theme of the poem is environmental destruction and human insensitivity to nature’s suffering. It also touches on memory, loss, and grief for the natural world.
Another suitable title could be “The Cry of the Tree” or “Felled” to reflect the emotional core of the poem.
9. Do trees have souls? Give your opinion.
Ans; In a scientific sense, trees may not have “souls” like humans define them, but they are living beings with their own form of life and presence. Many cultures believe that trees have spirits or energies. In an emotional or poetic sense, trees do have souls—they provide shelter, beauty, peace, and connect us with nature.
10. Imagine yourself to be a branch which has just been hacked out. Describe your feelings to your parent tree.
Ans; "Oh dear tree, my parent,
I was once your arm, reaching out to the skies,
bearing your leaves, whispering your songs.
But now I lie broken, bleeding sap,
disconnected from your life and love.
I fear I will wither, forgotten,
while you stand, incomplete, aching for what’s lost.
Forgive the ones who severed me,
and remember me in your rings and roots."
