Question 1
Find, in the first stanza, three things that cannot happen in a treeless forest.
In a treeless forest:
- No bird can sit.
- No insect can hide.
- The sun cannot bury its feet in the shadow.
Question 2
Where are the trees in the poem? What do their roots, their leaves, and their twigs do?
The trees are currently inside the poet’s house. They are trying to move out into the forest.
- Roots: Work all night to disengage from the floor.
- Leaves: Strain towards the glass to seek light.
- Small Twigs: Stiff with exertion, trying to break free.
- Long Boughs: Shuffle under the roof like cramped patients.
Question 3
Why does the poet say, “My head is full of whispers”?
The poet’s head is full of “whispers” because the trees are struggling and moving to get out of the house. These are the sounds of nature rebelling against confinement.