CBSE Class 9 English Beehive Poem Chapter 7 Summary

CBSE Class 9 English Beehive Poem Chapter 7 Summary: The poem On Killing a Tree by Gieve Patel, included in the  Class 9 English syllabus, is an important part of the literature section and aligns with the exam pattern that emphasizes comprehension, literary appreciation, and value-based questions. 

 The poem highlights the cruelty involved in cutting down a tree, portraying it as a living being that suffers and resists destruction. Through vivid imagery, the poet conveys how killing a tree is not an instant act but a prolonged, violent process. This poem is often featured in exams to assess students' understanding of environmental themes and poetic devices.

CBSE Class 9 English Beehive Poem Chapter 7 On Killing A Tree Summary

The poet says that destroying a tree isn’t easy and cannot be done with just a knife or a single cut. A tree takes many years to grow, and its roots go deep into the soil. It absorbs sunlight, air, and water for years to become strong. Its branches and leaves grow from its bark, which the poet compares to a skin disease.

Even if you cut or chop the tree, it won't die instantly. It will get hurt, and sap will ooze out like blood from a wound, but the tree will heal itself over time. New branches will grow again. Nature has a strong ability to recover.

To completely kill a tree, one must remove its roots from the soil. The roots, which keep the tree alive, must be pulled out using force. The poet calls the hole left behind the “earth cave.” When the roots are taken out, and the tree is exposed to light, the tree begins to lose life. The roots are described as white and moist because they’ve been hidden underground for many years.

Finally, the poet describes what happens after uprooting. The tree slowly dries up under the heat of the sun and blowing wind. Without its roots, it cannot get food or water. The trunk becomes hard, brown, and twisted. Eventually, it dries completely and dies.

Conclusion of Poem Chapter 7 On Killing A Tree Summary

The poem "On Killing a Tree" by Gieve Patel delivers a powerful message about the strength and resilience of nature. It emphasizes that trees, like all living beings, cannot be destroyed easily. Merely cutting or chopping them causes temporary harm, but they regenerate over time. The true destruction of a tree happens only when its roots—the source of its life—are completely removed. 

 Through vivid imagery and comparisons, the poet highlights the deep connection between trees and the earth. This poem reminds us of the cruelty involved in deforestation and urges respect for nature’s endurance and vital role in our lives.

CBSE Class 9 English Beehive Poem Chapter 7 Summary PDF

Below we have provided the PDF summary of  Class 9 English Beehive Poem Chapter 7 – On Killing a Tree. This summary is designed to help students understand the poem's meaning, theme, and message simply and clearly. 

 It follows the CBSE syllabus and exam pattern, making it useful for revision and exam preparation. The PDF includes key points, poetic devices, and an easy explanation to support better learning and comprehension for students.