Explain how the poem ‘Municipal Gum’ reflects the concept of
sustainability. In your response, analyse TWO examples from
the poem and follow PETAL paragraph structure.
POINT
The poem "Municipal Gum" by Oodgeroo Noonuccal reflects the concept of
sustainability through its depiction of the destructive impact of human actions
on the natural world and its call to action for individuals and communities to
promote sustainable practices. Two examples of this are the description of the
gum tree's physical state and the poem's call to action.
EVIDENCE
The poem describes the gum tree as being "racked and tortured" by the
concrete and metal surrounding it, which has prevented it from growing
properly. The tree is also depicted as being thirsty, with its roots unable to
access water due to the surrounding pavement. This description highlights the
negative impact of human development on the environment and the need for
sustainable practices that take into account the needs of natural ecosystems.
TECHNIQUE
The use of emotive language in the phrase "racked and tortured" emphasizes
the severity of the tree's plight and evokes empathy in the reader. Furthermore,
the description of the tree as thirsty is a powerful metaphor for the devastating
impact of human actions on the natural world.
ANALYSIS
The poem also calls for action to promote sustainability and protect the natural
world. The speaker implores readers to "rise up" and "demand" that the tree
is
freed from its concrete prison and allowed to grow naturally. This call to action
emphasizes the importance of individual and collective action in promoting
sustainability and protecting the natural world. The use of imperative verbs
such as "rise up" and "demand" are particularly effective in creating a sense
of
urgency and highlighting the need for action. Additionally, using the first-person
plural pronoun "we" in the line "we must demand our right to grow"
emphasizes the collective responsibility we all have in promoting sustainability.
LINK
In conclusion, "Municipal Gum" reflects the concept of sustainability through its
depiction of the negative impact of human actions on the environment and its
call to action for individuals and communities to promote sustainable practices.
Through the use of powerful language and metaphor, the poem highlights the
severity of the situation and emphasizes the importance of individual and
collective action in promoting sustainability.