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.