Comparing and Contrasting 'On Killing a Tree' and 'The Trees'

Introduction:
'On Killing a Tree' by Gieve Patel and 'The Trees' by Adrienne Rich are two poems that revolve around the theme of trees. While both the poems share similarities, there are also some differences that set them apart.

Similarities:

1. Theme:
Both the poems discuss the theme of trees and their importance in our lives. They highlight the fact that trees are not just objects but living beings, and they deserve respect and care.

2. Use of Metaphors:
Both the poems use metaphors to convey their message. In 'On Killing a Tree,' the tree is compared to a living being that fights back when attacked. Similarly, in 'The Trees,' the trees are compared to women who have been suppressed for too long and are now rising up to claim their rightful place.

3. Personification:
Both the poems personify the trees to make them seem more alive and relatable to the reader. In 'On Killing a Tree,' the tree is referred to as 'he' and 'him,' while in 'The Trees,' the trees are described as having 'voices' and 'arms.'

Differences:

1. Tone:
The tone of the two poems is vastly different. 'On Killing a Tree' has a more somber and serious tone, while 'The Trees' has a more upbeat and optimistic tone.

2. Purpose:
The purpose of the two poems is also different. 'On Killing a Tree' is a warning against the reckless destruction of nature, while 'The Trees' is a celebration of nature and its resilience.

3. Structure:
The structure of the two poems is also different. 'On Killing a Tree' is a sonnet with a strict rhyme scheme, while 'The Trees' is a free verse poem with no set structure.

4. Focus:
While both the poems focus on trees, 'On Killing a Tree' primarily focuses on the act of killing a tree, while 'The Trees' focuses on the trees themselves and their importance in our lives.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, 'On Killing a Tree' and 'The Trees' share similarities in their themes, use of metaphors, and personification of trees. However, their differences in tone, purpose, structure, and focus set them apart and make them unique works of literature.

The poem,"On killing a Tree" by Gieve Patel explains the difficulty of cutting down a tree.The poet discusses the firmness and longevity of trees.He puts forth the significance of trees in maintaining natural balance.

While 'The Trees ' by Adrienne Rich, describes that the trees don't like to stay imprisoned decorating a house but they want to be free and move to the place where they actually hail from.