Are you preparing for the Class 10 English 2023-24 CBSE board exams? If so, you'll need to be familiar with the poem "The Trees" by Adrienne Rich. This poem is a popular choice for board exams, and it's important to understand its meaning and themes in order to answer questions about it accurately.
In this blog post, we'll provide you with key questions and answers about "The Trees." These questions are designed to help you understand the poem in depth and to prepare for any questions that you may be asked on your board exam.
So, let's get started!
| Subject | English Language & Literature |
| Class | 10 |
| Board | CBSE |
| Chapter Name | The Trees |
| Poet | Adrienne Rich |
| Type | Important Questions and Answers |
| Session | 2023-24 |
| Book Name | First Flight Chapter 5 |
| Literature | Poem |
"Do not be embarrassed by your failures, learn from them and start again."
The Trees Class 10 Extra Questions Answers
Q. No. 1) Questions based on extract:
The trees inside are moving out into the forest,
the forest that was empty all these days
where no bird could sit no insect hide
no sun bury its feet in shadow
the forest that was empty all these nights
will be full of trees by morning.
i. Complete the sentence appropriately.
It is clear that Personification is the poetic device used for ‘No sun bury its feet….’ because _____. (Clue: explain how personification applies here)
Ans. the sun, which is non-human, is attributed the human feature of having feet.
ii. The poet has used a poetic device in the given lines. What effect does she wish to create by its use?
…no bird could sit
no insect hide
no sun…
a. emphasis
b. comparison
c. rhyme
d. humor
Ans. Option (a)
iii. State whether the following statement is TRUE or FALSE:
The extract uses trees as a symbol for conservative people.
Ans. False
iv. Select the appropriate option to complete the sentence, according to the extract.
The idea of a forest that has been ‘empty all these days’ is _____.
a. unnatural
b. scary
c. magical
d. Legendary
Ans. Option (a)
v. How does the use of enjambment impact this extract?
a. It forces frequent pauses.
b. It simplifies the meaning.
c. It builds momentum.
d. It makes the lines lyrical.
Ans. Option (c)
Q. No. 2) Multiple Choice Questions based on an extract:
All night the roots work
to disengage themselves from the cracks
in the veranda floor.
The leaves strain toward the glass
small twigs stiff with exertion
long-cramped boughs shuffling under the roof
like newly discharged patients
half-dazed, moving
to the clinic doors.
i. Choose the option that lists the examples of exertion.
- Neha had been up all night keeping accounts and now she’s resting.
- Swati was running for five miles non-stop last evening.
- Hemant is watching his favorite show and having snacks.
- Sachin helped a senior citizen board a flight in the morning.
a. 1, 2
b. 2, 3
c. 3, 4
d. 1, 4
Ans. Option (a)
ii. Choose the image that represents the main object of the extract literally.
a. Option (i)
b. Option (ii)
c. Option (iii)
d. Option (iv)
Ans. Option (d)
iii. Choose the correct option that mentions the correct poetic device against the correct example.
1.
| simile | long cramped boughs |
| metaphor | like newly discharged patients |
2.
| personification | small twigs stiff with exertion |
| simile | like newly discharged patients |
3.
| refrain | under the roof |
| simile | leaves strain toward the glass |
4.
| personification | like newly discharged patients |
| refrain | half-dazed, moving |
a. Option (1)
b. Option (2)
c. Option (3)
d. Option (4)
Ans. Option (b)
iv. long-cramped and half-dazed are combinations of two words joined together to form compound words.
Choose the option that DOES NOT correctly fit the definition of the same.
- discharged
- backstage
- comeback
- toward
- knighthood
a. 1, 4, 5
b. 2, 3, 4
c. 2, 3, 5
d. 1, 2, 4
Ans. Option (a)
v. Choose the option listing the image that the poem metaphorically represents.
a. Option (i)
b. Option (ii)
c. Option (iii)
d. Option (iv)
Ans. Option (d)
vi. The phrase, “newly discharged patients” suggests that the trees were
a. angry or irritated because they were not receiving medical help or remedy, but now they're cured and want to stay away from clinics.
b. discontent or disturbed and in need of support from the clinic staff, but now their complaints have been addressed and they are content to live their lives.
c. misunderstood or mistreated and in need of medical attention or care, but now they're healthy and ready to step out and promote the facility.
d. unwell or unhappy and in need of medical help or remedy, but now they're cured and ready to venture out and live their lives.
Ans. Option (d)
vii. The extract talks about trees breaking out of confined spaces. This is a reference to women
a. shifting away from their domestic confines.
b. seeking revenge for their age-old oppressions.
c. realizing the difference between friends and enemies.
d. focusing on their family and home
Ans. Option (a)
viii. Based on the extract, choose the option that lists the most likely symbolic meaning of (1) – (4) respectively.
a. caution, women, restrictions, individuality
b. individuality, caution, ideas, women
c. restrictions, women, opportunities, individuality
d. opportunities, support, caution, women
Ans. Option (c)
Q. No. 3) Multiple Choice Questions based on an extract:
I sit inside, doors open to the veranda
writing long letters
in which I scarcely mention the departure
of the forest from the house.
The night is fresh, the whole moon shines
in a sky still open…
i. The poet talks about the house as
a. a safe sanctuary from predators.
b. a place of confinement.
c. a representation of the family.
d. a concrete alternative to a natural on
Ans. Option (b)
ii. The poet uses the indefinite article for ‘sky’ instead of the definite one. This is so because the poet is referring to
a. the ceiling of the verandah as ‘a sky’ versus the door kept open, being ‘the sky’.
b. some part of the sky still left open for women to explore, away from limitations set by patriarchal norms.
c. the opportunities symbolized by an open sky outside can be utilized by a single woman.
d. The portion of the sky bathed in moonlight versus the part that is still dark.
Ans. Option (b)
iii. The extract uses ‘open’ twice, suggesting different meanings. Pick the option that lists the correct meanings, respectively.
a. entry point-vastness
b. sharing a common space-great view
c. allowing access and vision-expanse of space
d. advantage-obstacles ahead.
Ans. Option (c)
iv. Choose the option that DOES NOT state the meaning of the underlined word. ‘I scarcely mention…’
a. tactfully
b. hardly
c. barely
d. only just
Ans. Option (a)
v. Choose the option that correctly depicts the imagery in the last two lines of the extract.
a. Option (1)
b. Option (2)
c. Option (3)
d. Option (4)
Ans. Option (c)
Q. No. 4) In the poem “The Trees”, the poet compares the trees to “newly discharged patients”. Highlight any two reasons for the same.
Ans. There are two main reasons why the poet Adrienne Rich compares the trees to “newly discharged patients” are:
1. Both the trees and the patients have been confined to a space that is not natural to them.
The trees are planted in pots or tubs in the house, and the patients are confined to hospital beds. Both the trees and the patients are struggling to survive in these unnatural environments.
2. Both the trees and the patients are eager to return to their natural surroundings.
The trees long to return to the forest, and the patients long to return home. Both the trees and the patients know that they will only be able to thrive in their natural environments.
3. Both the trees and the patients are weak and vulnerable.
4. Both the trees and the patients need time to heal and recover.
5. Both the trees and the patients need support from others in order to thrive.
Q. No. 5) The process of “moving out” was tedious for the trees. Support the statement with reference to the poem.
Ans. The process of moving out was tedious for the trees in the poem "The Trees" by Adrienne Rich. The poet compares the trees to "newly discharged patients" and "convalescents," suggesting that they are weak and vulnerable. The poet also describes the trees as being exposed to a harsh and unfamiliar environment, and as struggling to escape from the house. These images and metaphors suggest that the process of moving was tedious and difficult for the trees.
Q. No. 6) The trees have been shown to have human qualities in the poem. Justify the statement with any two instances from the text.
Ans. In "The Trees" by Adrienne Rich, the poet personifies the trees, giving them human qualities:
- The description of "long-cramped boughs shuffling under the roof / like newly discharged patients" humanizes the trees by likening them to patients leaving a hospital, conveying a sense of vulnerability and transition.
- When the poem mentions the trees "stumbling forward / into the night," it imbues them with human-like awkwardness and uncertainty, as if they are taking hesitant steps like a person might when moving in the dark.
Q. No. 7) The poet symbolizes women as forests, not trees. What does this suggest?
Ans. In Adrienne Rich's poem "The Trees," the poet symbolizes women as forests, not trees. This suggests that women are a diverse and interconnected group, essential to the health and well-being of society. The poem reminds us of the need to protect and nurture women, just as we need to protect and nurture our forests.
I would also add that the poet's symbolism of women as forests suggests that women are resilient and adaptable. Just as a forest can withstand a variety of challenges, women have shown themselves to be resilient in the face of oppression and adversity.
Q. No. 8) The poet says that her ‘head is full of whispers’, wherein the ‘whispers’ symbolize forces of negativity and restriction. Explain why the poet says this.
Ans. In Adrienne Rich's poem "The Trees," the poet says that her "head is full of whispers" to symbolize the forces of negativity and restriction that she experiences as a woman in a patriarchal society. These whispers may come from her own internalized self-doubt, from the expectations of others, or from the systems of oppression that surround her. The poet suggests that these whispers are constantly trying to silence her and to prevent her from reaching her full potential. However, the poet also suggests that she is resisting these whispers and that she is determined to find her own voice.
The poem is a powerful reminder of the challenges that women face in a patriarchal society. It is also a reminder of the importance of resisting these challenges and finding our own voices.
Q. No. 9) Change never comes easy. Justify the quote in the context of the poem “The Trees”.
Ans. The quote "Change never comes easy" is justified in the context of the poem "The Trees" by Adrienne Rich. The poem describes the process of moving trees out of a house and into the forest, which is symbolic of the challenges that people face when trying to achieve freedom and liberation. The trees in the poem are reluctant to leave the house because they are afraid of the unknown and the pain of change. However, they eventually realize that they must leave the house in order to thrive. The poem suggests that change is often difficult and painful, but it is also necessary for growth and transformation. The trees in the poem learn that change is not easy, but it is worth it.
Q. No. 10) The forest undergoes tremendous transformation overnight. Discuss with reference to the poem “The Trees”.
Ans. The poem "The Trees" by Adrienne Rich describes a forest undergoing a tremendous transformation overnight. This transformation is symbolic of the power of change and the importance of freedom. The trees break free from the house and return to the forest, transforming it into a place of freedom and vitality. The poem reminds us that change is possible, even when it seems impossible, and that freedom is essential for growth and flourishing.
Q. No. 11) The poet uses trees as a symbol for women breaking patriarchal notions. Do you agree? Why/Why not?
Ans. I agree with the poet's use of trees as a symbol for women breaking patriarchal notions. Trees are often seen as symbols of strength, resilience, and growth, as well as femininity and fertility. In the context of the poem, the trees can be seen as representing women who are breaking free from the constraints of the patriarchy, a system of oppression that gives power to men and devalues women. The poem describes the trees as being "moved out" of the house and into the forest, which can be seen as a metaphor for women breaking free from the confines of the patriarchy and finding their own place in the world. The forest can be seen as a place of freedom and liberation, where the trees can grow and flourish. Overall, I believe that the poet's use of trees as a symbol for women breaking patriarchal notions is very effective, as the trees are a powerful symbol of resilience, growth, and transformation.
Q. No. 12) The poem ends on a note of victory. Justify with reference to the literal and symbolic meaning.
Ans. The poem "The Trees" by Adrienne Rich ends on a note of victory, both literally and symbolically. Literally, the trees have broken free from the house and returned to the forest, where they are free to grow and thrive. Symbolically, the trees' victory represents the victory of women over the patriarchy. The poem's ending is a powerful message of hope and inspiration, suggesting that we can all find victory even in the face of oppression and adversity.
Q. No. 13) The poem ‘Trees’ appears to be about trees, the environment, deforestation, and afforestation. On a deeper level, we discover that Adrienne Rich is expressing her concern about women and their emancipation. Elaborate with reference to the poem.
Ans. The poem "The Trees" by Adrienne Rich is a powerful metaphor for the oppression of women and the struggle for women's emancipation. The trees in the poem are confined to the house, which can be seen as a metaphor for the domestic sphere. The trees are also described as being "newly discharged patients" and "convalescents," suggesting that women who have been oppressed by the patriarchy are often wounded and vulnerable.
The trees' journey back to the forest can be seen as a metaphor for women's struggle for freedom and liberation. The trees encounter many obstacles on their journey, but they are determined to reach their destination. In the end, the trees reach the forest and are able to grow and thrive, which can be seen as a metaphor for women who are able to break free from the patriarchy and live full and meaningful lives.
The poem's ending is a message of hope and inspiration. It suggests that even when we are faced with oppression and adversity, we can still find freedom and liberation.
The poem is also relevant to the contemporary world, as women continue to face oppression and discrimination in many parts of the world. The poem reminds us that we must continue to fight for women's rights and equality.
Q. No. 14) You have been chosen to address a student gathering from the neighborhood schools, to speak on the resilience of the human spirit required to transcend discrimination. Prepare the speech draft in not more than 120 words, with reference to the commonality of themes in Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom and The Trees by Adrienne Rich.
You may begin this way:
Good morning, everyone. Today, I'd like to discuss two pieces of literature that offer a powerful insight into the resilience of the human spirit required to transcend discrimination.
You may end this way:
To conclude, I’d like to say that ...
Thank you
Ans. Good morning, everyone. Today, I'd like to discuss two pieces of literature that offer a powerful insight into the resilience of the human spirit required to transcend discrimination. Both works share some common themes.
(Theme 1: Transcending Discrimination)
Both Mandela's excerpt and Rich's poem address the issue of discrimination. Mandela speaks of how his own experiences of discrimination made him more determined to fight against it. He emphasizes the need to move beyond the divides created by race, gender, and class. Similarly, Rich's poem acknowledges the discrimination faced by trees, which are often overlooked and undervalued. She argues that these trees deserve to be recognized and appreciated, just as all living beings should be. [The metaphorical perspective for The Trees - the emergence of women against discrimination. Rich compares the growth of trees to the growth of women who were once suppressed and marginalized by society. Just as trees grow from the earth and reach for the sky, women too are rooted in their past but strive towards a better future, breaking free from the chains of oppression and discrimination.]
(Theme 2: The Efforts Involved in Achieving Equality)
Both pieces of literature also highlight the hard work and sacrifices required to achieve equality. Mandela describes his long and difficult journey toward freedom, including his time spent in prison. He emphasizes that true freedom is not just about breaking physical chains but also breaking mental ones. Rich's poem speaks of the efforts required to protect trees and nature, highlighting the importance of activism and advocacy. [The metaphorical perspective for The Trees - Despite being cut down and uprooted by the patriarchy, women continue to grow and flourish, resisting oppression and striving towards equality. The trees symbolize the tenacity and determination of women to rise above their circumstances and claim their rightful place in society.]
(Theme 3: Resilience of the Human Spirit)
Despite the challenges faced, both Mandela's excerpt and Rich's poem showcase the resilience of the human spirit. Mandela's perseverance and unwavering determination to fight against discrimination, even in the face of great adversity, inspire us to do the same. Rich's poem also speaks to the resilience of nature, which continues to thrive even in the face of human neglect and disregard. [The metaphorical perspective for The Trees - The poem celebrates the strength and tenacity of women and highlights the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. Through the symbol of the trees, Rich suggests that Content 3 Expression 2 Accuracy 1 13 of 14 just as nature can regenerate and thrive, so too can women emerge stronger and more resilient from discrimination and oppression.]
Conclusion:
To conclude, I’d like to say that the common themes of transcending discrimination and the efforts involved in achieving equality are prevalent in both these pieces of literature and remind us of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of standing up for what we believe in, even when faced with obstacles. By acknowledging and valuing all forms of life and working towards a more just and equal world, we can continue to build a better future for ourselves and for future generations.
Thank you.
Q. No. 15) Imagine you are a senior journalist covering this event of the trees moving.
Pen down a 120 words submission for the weekly newspaper column titled- ‘Change’
Include a brief account of your observation as well as your opinion.
You may begin like this:
CHANGE THIS WEEK
-Sr. correspondent, The U.S. Chronicle
It was a movement to behold! The trees…(continue)
Ans.
CHANGE THIS WEEK
-Sr. Correspondent, The U.S. Chronicle
It was a movement to behold! The trees, long ensnared within the confines of a veranda, have embarked on a journey of transformation and liberation. Last night, as I stood witness to this extraordinary spectacle, I couldn't help but reflect on the broader implications of change.
The roots of these trees, once deeply entrenched in the veranda floor, now strained to break free, much like individuals seeking to escape the constraints of routine and convention. Their leaves and twigs reached out toward the glass, a poignant reminder of our innate desire to connect with the outside world.
This event serves as a powerful metaphor for the human experience. We, too, must summon the courage to disengage from our comfort zones, break free from the cracks in our own lives, and reach for new horizons. Change, as exemplified by these trees, can be arduous, but it is essential for growth and renewal. In their struggle, I found inspiration and a call to embrace change, no matter how challenging it may be.
Q. No. 16) Imagine yourself to be the tallest oak among the trees. Write a speech motivating the other trees to work hard in order to move out of the veranda into the forest.
You may use the cue given below-
The Importance of Working Together
Dear fellow trees, I see how charged up you all are to move away from the confines of…(continue)
Ans.
The Importance of Working Together
Dear fellow trees,
I stand before you today as the tallest oak among us, but remember that our strength lies not just in height but in unity and determination. I see how charged up you all are to move away from the confines of the veranda and return to our rightful home, the forest.
Our journey may not be easy, but it is vital. Just as my towering branches are supported by my sturdy roots, we must work together to break free from the cracks in the veranda floor. The importance of working together cannot be overstated. Each root, each leaf, each branch contributes to our collective effort.
Let us draw inspiration from the wind that rushes to meet us and the moon's fragments that crown our ambition. We are a symbol of nature's resilience, and our return to the forest signifies renewal and growth.
Stay committed, stay connected, and remember, together we can overcome any obstacle. The forest awaits, and it is our shared destiny to reclaim it. Let us work hard and move forward, for our freedom and our future.
Thank you.
Q. No. 17) Imagine that the tallest oak in ‘Trees’ and the hemlock tree in ‘Dust of Snow’ share a conversation about their speakers (The ‘I’ in the poems).
Write this conversation between the two trees.
You may begin like this:
Oak: Adrienne chose to stay indoors on the significant full moon night, you know.
Hemlock: Hmmm… Robert was out. Out in the snow that day. What do you think Adrienne might have been thinking?
Oak: Well…I feel………………………………. Why do you think Robert might have been out on a snowy day?
Hemlock……………………………….
Ans. Oak: Adrienne chose to stay indoors on the significant full moon night, you know.
Hemlock: Hmmm… Robert was out. Out in the snow that day. What do you think Adrienne might have been thinking?
Oak: Well… I feel Adrienne may have been preoccupied with her own thoughts and perhaps didn't fully appreciate the beauty and significance of the natural world outside. Maybe she was consumed by her daily concerns or couldn't connect with the forest's transformation as we did.
Hemlock: It's possible. But Robert Frost's speaker, on that snowy day, seemed to find solace and renewal in the midst of nature. He acknowledged the transformative power of the snowfall. Perhaps, he was seeking a fresh perspective, a moment of clarity amidst the chaos of life.
Oak: Indeed, Hemlock. It's intriguing how poets' choices reflect their perspectives. Adrienne, focusing on our departure, may highlight the struggle against confinement, while Robert, in the snow, finds hope in unexpected moments. Both remind us of the intricate relationship between humans and nature.
Hemlock: True, Oak. We, as symbols of nature, resonate with the poets' messages, representing different facets of the human experience.
Hope you liked these Important Questions & Answers on Class 10 English First Flight Book Poem 'The Trees' by Adrienne Rich. Please share this with your friends and do comment if you have any doubts/suggestions to share.