Study Material
When Great Trees fall
Class X
1. Discuss the significance of the title.
The title “When Great Tress fall” carries a great deal of significance, introducing
the central metaphor of the poem. It serves as a poignant reflection of the
themes of loss, grief, and eventual renewal.
The phrase “Great Trees” serve as a metaphor for influential figures- individuals
who have had a significant impact on the lives of others. Just as a great tree
stands tall in the forest, providing shelter and sustenance to the creatures around
it, these individuals provide guidance, support and inspiration to their close ones.
The “fall” of these great trees signifies their demise. Much like the falling of
“Great Trees” cause a disruption in the forest eco system, death of influential
figures in our lives and of the society lead to profound grief and disorientation
among those who looked up to them. The metaphor powerfully captures the
ripple effects of such a loss.
The title also elaborates on the events and reactions that follows such a loss-
delving into the experiences of mourning, recollection and finally finding peace, a
renewed sense of purpose and the eventual acceptance and growth that can
arrive in the aftermath of grief.
2. When great souls die
The air around us becomes
Light, rare, sterile.
We breathe, briefly.
Our eyes, briefly,
See with
A hurtful clarity.
a. What does the word ‘sterile’ signify?
The word ‘sterile’ suggests a sense of emptiness, devoid of vitality and a lack of
vibrancy as if something vital has been taken away, leaving a void. It implies that
the atmosphere feels stagnant lacking the inspiration and influence which great
souls brought to our existence.
b. How would you interpret the phrase ‘hurtful clarity’?
The phrase ‘hurtful clarity’ suggests that after the loss of great souls,
our perception and understanding of things become painfully clear.
However this heightened clarity brings a sense of emotional pain and
discomfort. In their absence we are confronted with the unvarnished
truth of life along with the emotional challenges we have to bear. It
suggests that this newfound clarity brings a mix of sorrow, realization
and perhaps a deeper appreciation for what is lost.
c. How does the above extract make you reflect on the impact of
significant individuals to our lives?
The death of great souls can have a profound impact on the people
around them, leading to deep emotional pain among the people who
admired and respected them. A sense of void prevails in the lives of
people who had personal connections or were inspired by their
accomplishments. Their demise can lead to a lack of guidance leaving
people adrift or unsure about their path of life.
The presence of great souls enrich our lives. Their wisdom, actions and
contributions bring a sense of vibrancy, inspiration and vitality to our
surroundings. When they leave, we realise the depth of their impact
and how their presence made our lives richer.
Often these great figures play influential and inspiring roles in the
national and international community, whether it is through leadership,
activism, or societal enrichments. Their death can also lead to a sense of
collective loss and pain and may require the community to reassess its
direction or find new leaders to fill the void.
This reflection often encourages us to appreciate the significant
individuals we encounter in our lives and recognize the lasting imprints
they leave on us. It reminds us to cherish and respect those who
inspired and guided us. The stanza underscores the importance of
acknowledging and valuing the contributions of remarkable individuals
both in our personal lives and community as a whole.
d. What do you think Maya Angelou means by ‘rare’?
The word ‘rare’ implies that these remarkable figures were
extraordinary and irreplaceable. Their unique qualities, contributions
and influence were exceptional and not commonly found. With their
departure the world loses something rare and precious, and our
existence in their absence becomes less vibrant and enriched.
e. Explain the metaphor at the end of the poem- ‘the unutterable
ignorance of dark, cold caves’.
The above phrase suggests a state of profound ignorance, isolation and
lack of knowledge, insight and wisdom with the demise of great
individuals. Angelou uses this metaphor to convey the idea that in the
absence of great souls, our minds are left in a state of intellectual
darkness and emotional coldness. It also evokes a sense of isolation,
solitude and a lack of warmth.
Angelou may be suggesting that without the radiance and guidance of
great souls, we are left in a state of intellectual and emotional
impoverishment. It emphasizes the transformative power of these
exceptional individuals and underscores the importance of their
presence in expanding our knowledge, broadening our perspectives and
fostering personal growth.
