2.1 Cherry Tree by Ruskin Bond

Difficult words from the poem "Cherry Tree" by Ruskin Bond along with their meanings:

1. Monsoon: The monsoon refers to the seasonal winds in South Asia that bring heavy rainfall during the summer season. In the poem, it signifies a period of heavy rains that affected the cherry tree.

 2. Blight: Blight refers to a plant disease that can cause rapid withering, decay, or death of leaves, stems, and flowers. In the context of the poem, a monsoon blight affected the cherry tree, causing damage.

 3. Lust: In this context, lust means a strong desire or craving. The young cherry tree has a fierce lust or desire for light, air, and sun, symbolizing its strong will to grow and survive.

 4. Jeweled: Jeweled means adorned with jewels or precious stones. Here, it describes how the ripened cherry hanging from the branch shines brightly like a jewel in the sunlight.

 5. Merest: Merest means the smallest or slightest. The blossoms on the cherry tree are so delicate that they fall at the slightest breath of air or the gentlest breeze.

 6. Finches: Finches are small songbirds, often colourful, belonging to the family Fringillidae. They are mentioned in the poem as they fly and flit through the cherry tree.

 7. Ecstasy: Ecstasy refers to an overwhelming feeling of joy, pleasure, or delight. Bees are in ecstasy as they enjoy the nectar from the cherry tree's blossoms.

 8. Dappled: Dappled means marked with spots or patches of a different colour or shade. The speaker lies on the grass looking up through leaves, observing the play of light and shade on the tree's foliage.

 9. Moon-moths: Moon-moths are a type of large, nocturnal moth with pale, silvery markings, resembling a full moon. They are mentioned in the context of the night's activities around the cherry tree.

 10. Enlist: Enlist means to include or mention something in a list. In this case, it refers to listing the difficult words with meanings from the poem, as you have asked.

 Places in the poem Cherry Tree by Ruskin Bond:

1. Kashmir: The poet spent a season in Kashmir and returned home to find his cherry tree had grown.

 2. My Door: The poet's cherry tree is located near his door, indicating that it is planted close to his home.

 The poem primarily focuses on the growth and journey of the cherry tree, so there are not many specific places mentioned within the verses. The main setting is the poet's own surroundings, where he planted the cherry seed and witnessed the tree's growth over the years.

 Characters from the Poem  In Cherry Tree by Ruskin Bond:

 1. The Poet: The poet is the narrator of the poem. He is the one who plants the cherry seed in the grass and watches the cherry tree grow over the years. The poet feels a strong connection to the tree, considering it his own creation and takes pleasure in its growth and blossoming.

 2. The Cherry Tree: The cherry tree is the central character of the poem. It starts as a small seed planted by the poet and grows into a young tree despite facing challenges like being eaten by goats, cut by a grass cutter, and affected by monsoon blight. Despite all odds, the tree shows resilience and continues to grow, eventually bearing fruit and blossoms.

 Write an appreciation of the poem in detail considering the following points :

·      About the poem, poet and title.

·      Theme/summary/gist of the poem.

·      Poetic style/language, poetic devices used in the poem.

·      Special features/novelties/focusing elements.

·      Message/values/morals in the poem.

·      Your opinion about the poem.

 Appreciation of the Poem Cherry Tree by Ruskin Bond:

 ·      About the Poem, Poet, and Title:

"Cherry Tree" is a poignant and evocative poem penned by the renowned Indian author, Ruskin Bond. Known for his ability to capture the beauty and simplicity of nature through his writings, Bond's "Cherry Tree" is no exception. The title itself encapsulates the central focus of the poem, highlighting the significance of the cherry tree and its growth as a central theme.

 ·      Theme/Summary/Gist of the Poem:

The poem revolves around the journey of a cherry tree, planted by the poet himself. It spans over eight years, showcasing the growth and struggles of the tree amidst various challenges, including being eaten by goats and affected by a monsoon blight. Despite facing these adversities, the cherry tree perseveres and grows, much to the poet's surprise and joy. The poem emphasizes the resilience of nature and the profound connection between humans and the natural world. Through the cherry tree's growth, the poet also reflects on his own journey and the passage of time, finding fulfilment and pride in nurturing the tree.

 ·      Poetic Style/Language, Poetic Devices Used in the Poem:

Ruskin Bond's poetic style in "Cherry Tree" is characterized by its simplicity and lucidity. His language is gentle and descriptive, painting vivid imagery of the cherry tree and its surroundings. Throughout the poem, Bond skillfully employs various poetic devices to enhance the reader's experience. Personification is used to attribute human-like qualities to the cherries, emphasizing their independent growth. Imagery is heavily utilized to create picturesque scenes of the cherry tree, its blossoms, and the natural world around it. The use of alliteration, such as in "Hung from a branch-just one!" adds a musical quality to the poem, while metaphors and similes enrich the poet's comparisons of the tree's growth to a journey of personal growth.

 ·      Special Features/Novelties/Focusing Elements:

One of the special features of the poem is the progression of time and the tree's development over the years. This focusing element allows the readers to witness the tree's growth, as well as the changing emotions and attachment of the poet towards it. Additionally, the poem celebrates nature's resilience, portraying the cherry tree as a metaphor for life's struggles and triumphs. The emphasis on cherishing the beauty and wonders of nature also serves as a significant focusing element, reminding readers of the importance of nurturing and appreciating the natural world.

 ·      Message/Values/Morals in the Poem:

"Cherry Tree" conveys several valuable messages and morals. It emphasizes the resilience of nature, reminding us that life has its way of growing and thriving even in adverse conditions. The poem underscores the significance of patience, nurturing, and care, as symbolized by the poet's efforts in planting and tending to the cherry tree. Moreover, the poem celebrates the beauty and wonder of the natural world, encouraging readers to appreciate and preserve nature's gifts. The connection between humans and nature is portrayed as deep and meaningful, reinforcing the importance of living in harmony with the environment.

 ·      Opinion about the Poem:

In my opinion, "Cherry Tree" is a delightful and soul-stirring poem that beautifully captures the essence of nature's resilience and the profound connection between humans and the natural world. Ruskin Bond's poetic language and imagery transport the reader into the tranquil world of the cherry tree, creating a sense of wonder and appreciation for the miracles of nature. The progression of time throughout the poem adds depth to the narrative, making the reader feel emotionally invested in the tree's growth and the poet's journey. The poem's messages of resilience, patience, and cherishing nature's beauty resonate deeply, reminding us of the simple yet profound wonders that surround us every day.

 In conclusion, "Cherry Tree" is a timeless poem that weaves together the beauty of nature, the growth of life, and the interconnectedness of humans and the natural world. Ruskin Bond's poetic prowess shines through as he unfolds the story of the cherry tree, leaving readers with a sense of appreciation for nature's resilience and a reminder to cherish the beauty that surrounds us.

 

2. An Appreciation of the Poem :  Cherry Tree by Ruskin Bond

"Cherry Tree" by Ruskin Bond is a beautiful and poignant poem that captures the essence of nature's resilience and the profound connection between a human and a tree. With its simple yet evocative language, the poem takes the reader on a journey through time, showcasing the growth and struggles of a cherry tree planted by the poet.

 One of the most remarkable aspects of the poem is how it portrays the passage of time. The poet begins by reminiscing about planting the cherry seed eight years ago. This sense of time passing is further emphasized by the phrase, "Since I placed my cherry seed in the grass." The contrast between the passing of time and the tree's slow growth creates a sense of anticipation as the reader wonders what has become of the cherry seed.

 Nature's persistent power is another theme that shines through the poem. Despite the poet's initial neglect, the cherry seed finds a way to grow on its own, defying the odds of goats eating its leaves and facing the destructive forces of the grass cutter and monsoon blight. This portrayal of nature's resilience and ability to thrive in adverse conditions reminds us of the miraculous strength of life.

 The poet's relationship with the cherry tree is heartwarming and emotive. It is evident that the tree holds a special place in the poet's heart as he refers to it as "My own dark cherry." This possessive pronoun demonstrates a sense of ownership and pride in nurturing something that belongs uniquely to him. The tree becomes a symbol of hope and growth for the poet, reflecting his own journey through life.

 Moreover, the poem subtly highlights the rewards of patience and care. Despite facing challenges and difficulties, the cherry tree does not give up. It continues to grow and, eventually, bears fruit and blossoms. This growth mirrors the poet's own experiences and serves as a testament to the value of perseverance and nurturing even the smallest of beginnings.

 The poem's vivid imagery also captivates the reader's senses. From the "jewelled" cherry hanging from a branch to the delicate "pink, fragile" blossoms that fall at the slightest breeze, the visuals painted by the poet create a picturesque and enchanting scene. It allows the reader to feel intimately connected with the tree's journey, emphasizing the importance of nature in our lives.

 The last stanza of the poem is particularly powerful, as it brings together the beauty of the night and the poet's profound sense of fulfilment. The poet lies on the grass, gazing at the stars and the moon, feeling a deep connection to nature and to the cherry tree he nurtured. This moment of tranquillity and appreciation encapsulates the essence of the poem and the deep connection humans can have with the natural world.

 In conclusion, "Cherry Tree" by Ruskin Bond is a soul-stirring poem that celebrates the resilience of nature and the emotional bond between a human and a tree. Through its evocative language and vivid imagery, the poem leaves a lasting impression on the reader, reminding us of the beauty and wonder of the world around us and the significance of our connection with nature. It is a timeless piece of literature that resonates with readers of all ages, offering a glimpse into the enduring power of life and the joy of witnessing growth and beauty unfold before our eyes.

 Summary of The Poem :Cherry Tree by Ruskin Bond

"Cherry Tree" by Ruskin Bond is a heartfelt and touching poem that spans over eight years, chronicling the journey of a cherry seed planted by the poet himself. The poem begins with the poet's casual planting of the cherry seed in the grass, expressing a desire to have a tree of his own. He waters it once and forgets about it, but little does he know that cherries have a way of growing, even without much attention or care.

 In the following summer, near the end of May, the poet discovers that a small cherry tree has taken root. However, it is just a delicate sapling, barely five months old, and gets lost among the tall grass that surrounds it. The young tree faces challenges from the very beginning, as goats eat its leaves and a grass cutter's scythe splits it apart. Moreover, a monsoon blight further weakens the slender stem of the tree.

 Despite these adversities, the cherry tree perseveres and shows remarkable resilience. The next spring, the poet is delighted to witness three new shoots growing from the struggling tree. The tree's growth continues, and it reaches upward, desperately reaching for light, air, and the warmth of the sun. The poet, much like an observer of nature's miracles, can only wait and watch as the tree goes through its process of growth, finding beauty in the tree's determination and natural instincts.

 The following year, the poet has to leave and spends a season in Kashmir. When he returns, he finds himself pleasantly surprised. The cherry tree, now standing tall at six feet, has matured into a beautiful dark cherry tree. It has come into its own, and the poet can hardly believe his eyes when he sees the cherries hanging from its branches, ripened and gleaming like jewels in the sunlight.

 In the subsequent year, the cherry tree blossoms, with small pink and fragile flowers that are quick to fall at the slightest breeze. The poet is overwhelmed by the sight, and he takes a moment to lie on the grass, looking up at the tree's foliage and the sky beyond. He observes the finches flitting through the dappled green leaves, and he is captivated by the bees enjoying the nectar from the blossoms.

 In this moment of reflection and appreciation, the poet finds himself praising the night, the stars, and the cherry tree that has grown under his care. The cherry tree has become a symbol of growth, resilience, and the beauty of nature. It has transformed from a tiny seed to a magnificent tree, and the poet feels a deep sense of connection and fulfilment in witnessing this incredible journey.

 In essence, "Cherry Tree" is a celebration of the marvels of nature, the joys of nurturing life, and the profound connection that can exist between humans and the natural world. Through the simple act of planting a seed and observing its growth, the poet is reminded of the resilience of life and the beauty that can be found in even the smallest of creations. The poem serves as a gentle reminder of the wonders that surround us and the importance of appreciating the growth and beauty of the world we inhabit.

 Figures of speech in the poem Cherry Tree by Ruskin Bond:

 1. Personification:

Example: "Cherries have a way of growing, Though no one's caring very much or knowing."

Explanation: In this line, cherries are personified as having their own will and ability to grow, almost as if they have a mind of their own. The poet attributes human-like qualities to the cherries, making them seem independent and determined to grow despite the lack of human attention.

 2. Metaphor:

Example: "A monsoon blight Shrivelled the slender stem."

Explanation: The phrase "monsoon blight" is a metaphor used to describe the damage caused by the monsoon rains. It compares the negative impact of the blight on the cherry tree's slender stem to the destructive power of a disease or affliction.

 3. Simile:

Example: "The young tree struggle, upward thrust Its arms in a fresh fierce lust For light and air and sun."

Explanation: The use of "like" or "as" is absent in this example, but it still functions as a simile. The poet compares the cherry tree's upward growth to the actions of a struggling, determined young tree. The phrase "fresh fierce lust" vividly expresses the tree's strong desire for light and nourishment, drawing a powerful image in the reader's mind.

 4. Alliteration:

Example: "Hung from a branch-just one!"

Explanation: Alliteration is the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of closely connected words. In this example, the repeated "h" sound in "Hung from a branch" creates a melodious effect, emphasizing the image of a solitary cherry hanging from a branch.

 5. Hyperbole:

Example: "And I could scarcely believe it - a berry."

Explanation: Hyperbole is an exaggeration used for emphasis. In this line, the poet's disbelief at seeing a single cherry on the tree is exaggerated, as it is surprising that after years of growth, there is only one berry. It highlights the poet's astonishment and adds a touch of humour to the poem.

 6. Symbolism:

Example: "That small, the cherry, grown by me."

Explanation: Throughout the poem, the cherry tree symbolizes growth, resilience, and the beauty of nature. It represents the passage of time and the poet's connection to the natural world. The tree's journey becomes a metaphor for the poet's own personal growth and experiences.

 Question and Answers in the Poem Cherry Tree by Ruskin Bond:

 Q1: What is the central theme of the poem "Cherry Tree" by Ruskin Bond?

A: The central theme of the poem is the resilience of nature and the deep connection between humans and the natural world. It highlights the growth and struggles of a cherry tree planted by the poet, showcasing how the tree perseveres and thrives despite facing challenges, and how the poet feels a profound sense of fulfilment and pride in nurturing the tree.

 Q2: How does the poet's relationship with the cherry tree evolve throughout the poem?

A: At the beginning of the poem, the poet casually plants the cherry seed in the grass, not thinking much of it. As the tree starts to grow, the poet becomes more invested in its well-being, observing its struggles and growth. Over time, the poet develops a strong emotional connection with the tree, considering it his own creation. The cherry tree becomes a symbol of hope and growth for the poet, and he takes great pleasure in witnessing its development and eventual fruition.

 Q3: What do the cherries and blossoms symbolize in the poem?

A: The cherries and blossoms symbolize the fruits of perseverance and care. They represent the rewards of patience and nurturing, as they are the result of the cherry tree's resilience and the poet's attention to its growth. The cherries also symbolize the poet's sense of fulfilment and pride in seeing his efforts bear fruit, while the delicate blossoms symbolize the fleeting beauty of nature and the transient nature of life.

Q4: How does the poet use imagery to depict the cherry tree and its surroundings?

A: The poet uses vivid imagery throughout the poem to bring the cherry tree and its surroundings to life. He describes the young tree struggling to grow, thrusting its arms upward in a "fresh fierce lust" for light and air. The ripened cherries are portrayed as "jewelled" hanging from the tree's branches. The pink and fragile blossoms are depicted as quick to fall at the merest breath or breeze. The imagery paints a picturesque and enchanting scene, immersing the reader in the beauty and wonder of nature.

Q5: What do you think the poem "Cherry Tree" teaches us about life and nature?

A: The poem "Cherry Tree" teaches us that life is a journey of growth and resilience, just like the cherry tree's journey from a tiny seed to a mature tree bearing fruit. It highlights the power of nature's ability to thrive even in adverse conditions and the rewards of patience and care. The poem also emphasizes the profound connection humans can have with the natural world and the joy and fulfilment that can be found in nurturing and appreciating the beauty of nature around us.

Q6: How does the poem "Cherry Tree" by Ruskin Bond explore the concept of time and its impact on nature and human endeavours?

A: The poem delves into the passage of time and its effects on the cherry tree and the poet's life. It spans over eight years, from the moment the poet plants the cherry seed to the tree's growth into a mature tree. This exploration of time showcases how nature operates on its own timeline, gradually nurturing the cherry seed into a thriving tree. The poem also reflects on the poet's changing perspective towards the tree over the years. Initially, he plants the seed casually and forgets about it, but as time goes on, he becomes more engaged and emotionally connected to the tree's journey, paralleling the way time influences human understanding and attachment to nature and life's endeavours.

Q7: In what ways does the poet demonstrate his appreciation for the natural world in "Cherry Tree"?

A: The poet's appreciation for the natural world is evident throughout the poem. He takes joy in planting the cherry seed, hoping to have a tree of his own. As the cherry tree grows, he observes and cherishes its progress, acknowledging its struggles and triumphs. The poet's detailed descriptions of the tree, its blossoms, and its surroundings showcase his keen observation of nature's beauty. Additionally, his connection with the cherry tree becomes symbolic of his appreciation for the larger natural world. He praises the night, stars, and moon-moths, expressing his admiration for the wonders of nature that coexist with his beloved cherry tree.

Q8: What can we learn about the human experience from the poem "Cherry Tree"?

A: The poem "Cherry Tree" teaches us valuable lessons about the human experience. It emphasizes the significance of perseverance and resilience in facing life's challenges. Just as the cherry tree struggles and grows amidst various obstacles, humans can find strength in adversity and grow stronger through life's trials. The poem also highlights the rewards of patience and nurturing, reminding us that the efforts we invest in nurturing something, whether a tree or a personal goal, can yield beautiful results over time. Moreover, the poem fosters an appreciation for the beauty of nature and the profound connection we can develop with the natural world, reminding us of the importance of preserving and cherishing the environment around us.

Q9: How does the poem "Cherry Tree" evoke a sense of nostalgia and reflection?

A: The poem's focus on the passage of time and the tree's growth over eight years evokes a sense of nostalgia and reflection. The poet looks back on the cherry tree's journey, recalling the moment he planted the seed, and how it has thrived and faced challenges over the years. This reflection prompts the reader to think about their own experiences with nature and the passage of time in their lives. The poem's descriptive language and vivid imagery also add to the nostalgic and reflective tone, encouraging readers to appreciate the fleeting beauty of nature and life's precious moments.

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