1. Summary of the Poem
The poem “Trees are the Kindest Things I Know” by Harry Behn describes the kindness of trees and their selfless contributions to nature and humans. The poet explains how trees provide shade, shelter, food, and beauty without causing any harm. They are present from sunrise to sunset and even at night, creating a peaceful and comforting atmosphere. The poem highlights the importance of trees in our lives and encourages appreciation for them.
2. Explanation of Each Stanza
Stanza 1:
“Trees are the kindest things I know,They do not harm, they simply grow.”
- The poet starts by calling trees the kindest things because they do not harm anyone.
- Unlike humans or animals, trees do not cause destruction; they just grow silently.
Stanza 2:
“And spread a shade for sleepy cows,And gather birds among their boughs.”
- Trees provide shade to cows and other animals, allowing them to rest comfortably.
- Birds find shelter in the branches (boughs) of trees, making them a home.
Stanza 3:
“They give us fruit, in leaves above,And wood to make our houses of.”
- Trees provide fruits that serve as food for humans and animals.
- They also provide wood, which is used to build houses, furniture, and many useful items.
Stanza 4:
“And leaves to burn on Hallowe’en,And in the Spring new buds of green.”
- During Hallowe’en, dry leaves are burned in western countries as part of traditions.
- In spring, trees grow new green leaves, showing renewal and life.
Stanza 5:
“They are the first when day’s begunTo touch the beams of morning sun.”
- When the sun rises, the tops of trees are the first to receive sunlight.
- This shows how trees are connected to nature and daylight.
Stanza 6:
“They are the last to hold the light,When evening changes into night.”
- Trees hold onto the last rays of sunlight when the sun sets and darkness falls.
- This imagery creates a sense of calm and peace.
Stanza 7:
“And when a moon floats on the sky,They hum a drowsy lullabyOf sleepy children long ago…”
- At night, trees create a soothing and peaceful environment.
- The rustling of leaves sounds like a lullaby (soft song), helping people fall asleep.
Stanza 8:
“Trees are the kindest things I know.”
- The poem ends with the poet repeating the first line, reinforcing the message that trees are kind, generous, and selfless.
3. Theme of the Poem
- Kindness and Generosity of Trees – Trees help humans, animals, and birds without expecting anything in return.
- Role of Trees in Nature – They provide shade, shelter, food, and beauty.
- Symbolism of Peace and Comfort – The poem presents trees as calm and soothing beings.
- Cycle of Life – Trees grow, shed leaves, and renew themselves every season.
4. Poetic Devices Used
| Poetic Device | Examples from the Poem |
|---|---|
| Personification (Giving human qualities to non-living things) | “They hum a drowsy lullaby.” (Trees are imagined to be singing) |
| Imagery (Descriptive words that create pictures in the mind) | “They are the last to hold the light.” (Creates an image of trees at sunset) |
| Rhyme Scheme | The poem follows a simple AABB rhyme scheme (e.g., know-grow, cows-boughs). |
| Repetition | “Trees are the kindest things I know.” (Emphasizing the message) |
5. Word Meanings
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Boughs | Branches of a tree |
| Hallowe’en | A western festival celebrated on 31st October |
| Beams | Rays of the sun |
| Drowsy | Sleepy |
| Lullaby | A soft song to help children sleep |
6. Questions & Answers
(1) What living things can cause harm to one another? Name any five.
- Humans (destroy forests and hunt animals)
- Wild animals (prey on other animals)
- Poisonous snakes (harm animals and humans)
- Insects (spread diseases)
- Bacteria & viruses (cause illnesses)
(2) Why are trees called harmless?
Trees are harmless because they do not harm anyone. Instead, they provide shade, food, shelter, and wood, making life better for all living beings.
(3) Why do people burn leaves on Hallowe’en?
Hallowe’en is celebrated in Autumn (Fall) when trees shed dry leaves. People burn them as part of a tradition and also to keep warm as winter approaches.
(4) What part of the day is referred to in the line, “They are the last to hold the light, when evening changes into night”?
The line refers to sunset (dusk) when the sky darkens. The treetops are the last to reflect the sunlight before night falls.
(5) Find lines that mean the following:
| Statement | Line from the Poem |
|---|---|
| Trees provide shelter for animals. | “And gather birds among their boughs.” |
| Trees provide food for all. | “They give us fruit, in leaves above.” |
| Trees are most lovable. | “Trees are the kindest things I know.” |
| Kids love to listen to songs from trees. | “They hum a drowsy lullaby.” |
| Trees live a simple life. | “They do not harm, they simply grow.” |
7. Moral of the Poem
- Trees are selfless and generous.
- Nature should be respected and protected.
- Trees bring beauty, peace, and comfort to the world.
- We should plant more trees to preserve nature for future generations.
8. Conclusion
The poem “Trees are the Kindest Things I Know” is a beautiful tribute to trees and their contributions to life on Earth. Through simple yet powerful words, the poet highlights the importance of trees in our environment. The poem encourages readers to appreciate and protect trees, as they are truly the kindest living beings.
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