Test: Heartwood - Class 7 MCQ

The tree appeals to the woodcutter to consider its own life and existence before deciding to cut it down. This highlights the poet's message about the value of trees not just as resources, but as living beings with their own roles and significance in nature.

The tree describes itself as a drinker of rain, breath-giver, shade-caster, and a home for butterflies and creatures. This shows it is not just shelter but a complete life-giver and supporter of ecosystems, highlighting its vital role in maintaining ecological balance.

The poem contrasts the long time it takes for trees to grow with the rapidity of their destruction by human tools. This stark difference underscores the fragility of nature and the need for greater awareness and responsibility concerning environmental conservation.

The tree questions the woodcutter about his possession of "heartwood," which symbolizes compassion and sensitivity. This inquiry serves as a moral appeal, urging the woodcutter to reflect on his actions and their impact on the environment.

The tree characterizes itself as a complex ecosystem that supports various creatures, including butterflies and other wildlife. This description elevates the tree's status from a simple object to a vital component of the natural world, highlighting its importance in maintaining biodiversity.

The phrase "open-hearted" implies that the tree has a deep emotional capacity, inviting the woodcutter to consider its life and feelings. This anthropomorphism emphasizes the tree's vitality and the emotional plea for understanding and compassion.

The overall message of the poem emphasizes that compassion and responsibility are crucial in our interactions with nature. It calls for a deeper understanding of the ecological roles that trees play and the consequences of their destruction, urging humans to act thoughtfully.

The primary literary technique used in the poem is personification, as the tree is given human-like qualities and the ability to speak. This technique effectively conveys the tree's emotions and thoughts, making its plea for preservation more poignant and relatable.

The tree's description of its various functions emphasizes the interconnectedness of life within the ecosystem, reinforcing the theme of the poem. By showcasing the vital roles trees play, the poem advocates for a greater appreciation of nature's complexity and the need for its protection.

The tree's plea reveals the poet's view that there is an urgency in protecting natural life. The call for compassion and reflection in the face of destruction underscores the importance of environmental conservation and the moral responsibility humans have towards nature.