NCERT extra question for Class 7 English Honeycomb Chapter 4 The Ashes that Made Trees Bloom 

Very short answer type question 

1. Who is the author of "The Ashes that Made Trees Bloom"?

Author: William E. Geist.

2.What significant event does the story "The Ashes that Made Trees Bloom" revolve around?

Event: The story revolves around the eruption of Mount St. Helens in 1980.

3. What state in the United States is Mount St. Helens located in?

State: Washington.

4.What did the eruption of Mount St. Helens cause in the story?

Consequence: The eruption caused widespread destruction and loss of life.

5. Who is the central character in the story, and what is his profession?

Character: The central character is Harry Truman, a cantankerous old man who refused to leave his lodge near the volcano.

6. What did Harry Truman do that made him famous during the volcanic eruption?

Action: Harry Truman refused to evacuate and became famous for his defiance in the face of the eruption.

7. What did Harry Truman symbolize in the story?

Symbolism: He symbolized resilience and stubbornness in the face of nature's fury.

8.What was the result of Harry Truman's decision to stay in the lodge?

Result: Unfortunately, Harry Truman perished in the eruption along with his lodge.

9.Who is the narrator of the story, and what perspective does the story adopt?

Narrator: The narrator is a journalist who reports on the eruption. The story is written in the first-person perspective.

10. What is the central theme of "The Ashes that Made Trees Bloom"?

Theme: The resilience of the human spirit in the face of disaster.

11. How did the volcanic eruption change the landscape in the story?

Change: The eruption dramatically altered the landscape, covering it in ash and devastation.

12. What did the journalist find when he visited the area after the eruption?

Discovery: The journalist found the shattered remnants of Harry Truman's lodge.

13. What did the locals do with the ash from the eruption?

Use: The locals used the ash to enrich their gardens and promote new growth.

14.What does the title, "The Ashes that Made Trees Bloom," signify in the story?

Significance: It highlights the regenerative power of nature and resilience in the face of destruction.

15. How did the journalist feel when he met Harry Truman's niece?

Emotion: The journalist felt a mix of emotions, including sympathy and admiration, when he met Harry Truman's niece.

16. What did Harry Truman's niece reveal about his character in the story?

Revelation: She revealed that Harry Truman was a proud and determined man who stood by his decisions.

17. What important lesson did the journalist learn from the story's events?

Lesson: The journalist learned the value of determination and resilience, even in the face of inevitable disaster.

18. How did the eruption of Mount St. Helens impact the lives of the people in the story?

Impact: The eruption left a profound impact, causing loss and reshaping their lives.

19. What did the journalist witness when he revisited the area a year after the eruption?

Observation: He witnessed new life, as trees and plants had started to grow again.

20. What is the significance of the rebirth of life in the story's context?

Significance: It symbolizes hope, renewal, and the ability to recover from adversity.

21. How does the story "The Ashes that Made Trees Bloom" inspire readers?

Inspiration: It inspires readers with the message that even in the darkest times, life can flourish again.

22. What is the role of Harry Truman's character in the story's narrative?

Role: Harry Truman's character serves as a symbol of human determination and tenacity.

23. What does the journalist's visit to the eruption site reveal about the passage of time?

Reflection: It shows how time can heal and bring about new beginnings.

24. Why did the journalist choose to report on the Mount St. Helens eruption?

Motivation: He was drawn to the story due to its dramatic and impactful nature.

25. What was the most powerful image in the story that stuck with the journalist?

Image: The image of Harry Truman's scattered possessions amidst the destruction left a lasting impression.

26. What is the overall tone of the story "The Ashes that Made Trees Bloom"?

Tone: The tone is a mix of reverence, awe, and reflection.

27. How does the story demonstrate the intricate relationship between humans and nature?

Relationship: It shows how humans are both vulnerable to and resilient in the face of nature's forces.

28. What is the message the story conveys about human responses to natural disasters?

Message: The story suggests that while some may defy nature's warnings, others may find hope and growth in its aftermath.

29. How does the journalist's encounter with Harry Truman's niece provide a deeper understanding of the character?

Insight: It provides insight into Harry Truman's pride and determination, which ultimately defined his character.

30. What impact did the story have on the journalist, and how did it change his perspective on life?

Impact: The story had a profound impact on the journalist, leading him to reflect on the resilience of the human spirit and the regenerative power of nature. It shifted his perspective towards a more positive and hopeful outlook on life.

Short answer type questions 

1. How does the eruption of Mount St. Helens impact the people living near the volcano in the story?

Answer: The eruption of Mount St. Helens brings devastating consequences to the people living in its vicinity. Homes are destroyed, the landscape is altered, and many lives are lost. The eruption shatters the lives of the locals, leaving them in a state of shock and despair.

2. What motivates Harry Truman to stay in his lodge near the volcano despite evacuation warnings?

Answer: Harry Truman's decision to stay in his lodge is motivated by a combination of stubbornness, pride, and a deep attachment to his property and the mountain. He refuses to leave because he is determined to protect what he considers his home and legacy. He becomes a symbol of defiance in the face of nature's fury.

3. How does the eruption change the landscape of the area, and what are the immediate effects on the environment?

Answer: The eruption dramatically changes the landscape. It buries the area in thick layers of ash and debris, leaving a desolate, ashen wasteland. Vegetation is destroyed, and rivers are clogged with debris. The immediate effects are a grim scene of destruction and loss.

4. What does the journalist discover when he visits the area one year after the eruption?

Answer: When the journalist returns to the area a year after the eruption, he is greeted by a surprising and heartening sight. The once-barren landscape is now showing signs of renewal. Trees and plants have started to grow, and life is slowly returning to the region.

5. How does the journalist's encounter with Harry Truman's niece provide insight into Harry Truman's character?

Answer: The journalist's meeting with Harry Truman's niece reveals the pride and determination that defined Harry Truman's character. She recounts how her uncle was a fiercely independent man who refused to leave, even in the face of a catastrophic event. This encounter provides a deeper understanding of what made Harry Truman famous and the traits that defined his character.

6. What symbolism is associated with the ash from the eruption, and how do the locals utilize it?

Answer: The ash from the eruption holds profound symbolism in the story. It symbolizes both destruction and rebirth. The locals collect the ash and use it to enrich their gardens, promoting new growth. This practice underscores the regenerative power of nature and the resilience of the human spirit.

7. What central theme does "The Ashes that Made Trees Bloom" explore, and how does it manifest in the story's events?

Answer: The central theme of the story is the resilience of the human spirit in the face of disaster. This theme is evident in Harry Truman's defiance and in the regrowth of life in the aftermath of the eruption. It underscores the capacity of humans and nature to rebound from adversity.

8. How does the title, "The Ashes that Made Trees Bloom," encapsulate the story's core message?

Answer: The title signifies that even in the wake of destruction and devastation, life can rejuvenate and flourish. It captures the essence of hope, renewal, and the ability to thrive despite adversity, which is a central message of the story.

9. What emotions and thoughts does the journalist experience when he revisits the eruption site a year later?

Answer: The journalist's emotions are marked by a mix of reverence and awe. He is deeply moved by the signs of new life emerging from the once-devastated landscape. This visit prompts reflection on the resilience of life and the passage of time.

10. How does "The Ashes that Made Trees Bloom" convey the intricate relationship between humans and nature?

Answer: The story illustrates the delicate balance between humans and nature. It shows how nature's forces can be both destructive and regenerative. It highlights the vulnerability of humans in the face of natural disasters while emphasizing their capacity for resilience.

11. What message does the story convey about human responses to natural disasters?

Answer: The story suggests that responses to natural disasters can vary. Some, like Harry Truman, may defy warnings, while others may find hope and growth in the aftermath. It underscores the complexity of human reactions to catastrophic events.

12. How does the eruption of Mount St. Helens serve as a backdrop to explore the human condition and the power of determination?

Answer: The eruption serves as a dramatic backdrop to examine the human condition. Harry Truman's determination to stay despite the impending disaster symbolizes the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. His defiance becomes a testament to the indomitable human will.

13. What is the overall tone of "The Ashes that Made Trees Bloom," and how does it influence the reader's experience?

Answer: The tone of the story is a mix of reverence, awe, and reflection. It influences the reader's experience by evoking a sense of wonder at the regenerative power of nature and the resilience of the human spirit.

14. In what way does the story exemplify the transformative power of time and nature?

Answer: The story demonstrates how time and nature can bring about transformation and healing. The barren landscape one year after the eruption is a testament to the ability of both time and nature to facilitate renewal.

15. What impact does the story "The Ashes that Made Trees Bloom" have on the reader's perception of life's adversities?

Answer: The story leaves the reader with a deep sense of hope and

Long answer type question 

1. How does the eruption of Mount St. Helens impact the people living near the volcano in the story?

Answer: The eruption of Mount St. Helens had a profound impact on the people living near the volcano in the story. It was a cataclysmic event that resulted in widespread destruction, loss of life, and a dramatic transformation of the landscape. For the local residents, it was a moment of terror and chaos. Homes were destroyed, livelihoods were disrupted, and families were torn apart. The immediate impact was one of shock, grief, and despair. The eruption not only disrupted the physical environment but also the social and emotional landscapes of the community. The eruption affected not only those who lived in the immediate vicinity but also people in neighboring regions. It served as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and devastating power of nature. Many lost their homes, and some tragically lost their lives. It was a traumatic event that left scars on the collective memory of the community. In the aftermath of the eruption, there was a sense of loss and displacement. Residents faced the daunting task of rebuilding their lives and their communities. It was a challenging process, as they had to come to terms with the scale of the disaster and find the strength to move forward.The impact of the eruption was not limited to the physical destruction of property and landscape. It also had a lasting psychological impact. People were left with a sense of vulnerability and the realization that they were at the mercy of nature's forces. The eruption became a part of their shared history, a reminder of the fragility of human existence in the face of natural disasters. Ultimately, the eruption of Mount St. Helens was a pivotal moment that tested the resilience of the people in the story. It highlighted the capacity of individuals and communities to come together, support one another, and rebuild their lives in the aftermath of a devastating event.

2. What motivates Harry Truman to stay in his lodge near the volcano despite evacuation warnings?

Answer: Harry Truman's decision to stay in his lodge near Mount St. Helens despite repeated evacuation warnings is a complex blend of pride, attachment, and unwavering determination. It was a decision that would make him famous and serve as a symbol of defiance in the face of impending disaster. First and foremost, Harry Truman's lodge was his home, and he had a deep emotional attachment to it. He had lived in the area for decades and had built a life there. The lodge was not just a building; it represented his history, his memories, and his identity. This emotional connection to his home played a significant role in his decision to stay.

Harry Truman was also a fiercely independent man. He had a reputation for being cantankerous and stubborn. These personality traits contributed to his defiance in the face of evacuation orders. He resented the idea of being told what to do, especially by government authorities. This sense of pride and resistance was a defining aspect of his character. Additionally, Harry Truman was no stranger to the volcanic activity of Mount St. Helens. He had experienced previous eruptions and believed he had a deep understanding of the mountain's behavior. This experience led him to underestimate the potential danger of the 1980 eruption. He believed that the mountain would not harm him and that he could weather the storm. Harry Truman's decision to stay was also driven by a desire to protect his property and possessions. He refused to abandon his lodge and the belongings he had accumulated over the years. He was determined to safeguard what he had worked so hard to acquire. In the end, it was a combination of emotional attachment, pride, a sense of independence, and the belief in his understanding of the mountain that motivated Harry Truman to stay in the face of evacuation warnings. His story serves as a powerful example of human tenacity and the complexities of human decision-making in the face of natural disasters.

3. How does the eruption change the landscape of the area, and what are the immediate effects on the environment?

Answer: The eruption of Mount St. Helens was a cataclysmic event that wrought profound changes to the landscape, resulting in immediate and far-reaching effects on the environment. The eruption can be described as a natural disaster of epic proportions, leaving an indelible mark on the land. The immediate effect of the eruption was the violent expulsion of ash, steam, and rock from the volcano. This explosive release created a massive ash plume that rose high into the atmosphere, blanketing the surrounding region in a thick layer of ash. The landscape was instantly transformed into a bleak, gray, and desolate expanse. The eruption's explosive force caused massive destruction in the immediate vicinity of the volcano, leveling forests, obliterating structures, and altering the terrain. The ash cloud that billowed from the volcano was a choking, blinding maelstrom of fine ash particles. It darkened the skies and turned daylight into an eerie twilight. The immediate area around the eruption site was plunged into a state of chaos and darkness. The eruption also had a devastating impact on the flora and fauna of the region. Forests were decimated as trees were uprooted, snapped, or buried under the weight of ash. The intense heat generated by the eruption incinerated vegetation in its path. Rivers and streams were choked with debris, leading to altered water flow patterns and the destruction of aquatic habitats. In the immediate aftermath of the eruption, there was an eerie silence in the affected areas. The once-vibrant landscapes were now eerily quiet, with the sounds of nature silenced by the destructive forces of the volcano. The immediate environmental effects were far-reaching, and the devastation extended for miles around the eruption site. Towns and communities were buried in ash, and communication and transportation networks were disrupted. The scale of the destruction was so immense that it challenged the ability of emergency responders and government agencies to provide immediate relief. The eruption of Mount St. Helens was a stark reminder of the awesome and destructive power of nature. It served as a testament to the volatility of the Earth's geology and the unpredictable nature of volcanic eruptions. The immediate effects were those of chaos, destruction, and a profound alteration of the natural environment.

4. What does the journalist discover when he visits the area one year after the eruption?

Answer: When the journalist returns to the area surrounding Mount St. Helens a year after the eruption, he is met with a scene that is both surprising and heartening. The once-barren and desolate landscape, which had been covered in ash and debris, now shows signs of renewal and regeneration.

Where there was once a landscape dominated by gray and lifelessness, there are now signs of greenery. The resilient force of nature is evident as new life has begun to emerge. Small trees and shrubs have taken root in the ash-covered soil, and wildflowers have started to bloom. The landscape is no longer a lifeless expanse but a testament to nature's capacity for rebirth.

The rivers and streams, which had been choked with debris and ash, are now flowing more freely, and aquatic life is gradually returning. Fish have reoccupied the waterways, and the ecological balance is slowly being reestablished.

The journalist observes the return of birds and wildlife to the area. Animal tracks crisscross the terrain, indicating that the natural world is reclaiming the land.

It's not just the natural environment that has shown signs of recovery; human life has also made a return. The area is no longer devoid of human presence. Signs of rebuilding and the return of human activity are evident.

What the journalist discovers a year after the eruption is a narrative of hope and resilience. It's a testament to the indomitable spirit of life and the remarkable ability of the environment to rebound and regenerate. The landscape, which had been characterized by destruction and desolation, is now a symbol of renewal and the enduring power of nature.

5. How does the title, "The Ashes that Made Trees Bloom," encapsulate the story's core message?

Answer: The title, "The Ashes that Made Trees Bloom," encapsulates the core message of the story, highlighting the transformative and regenerative power of nature in the wake of destruction. The title serves as a metaphor for the central theme of the narrative, emphasizing the ability of life to flourish and renew itself even in the face of catastrophic events.

"The Ashes" symbolize the aftermath of the volcanic eruption. They represent the devastation and the remnants of a cataclysmic event. Ash, in this context, signifies the aftermath of destruction and the bleakness that follows a disaster.

"Made Trees Bloom" signifies the remarkable and inspiring transformation that occurs in the story. It represents the emergence of new life and growth from the very ashes that were initially a symbol of destruction. The ashes, rather than being a symbol of despair, become a source of nourishment and renewal.

The core message of the story is that life has an innate ability to rebound and rejuvenate, even in the most adverse circumstances. The title encapsulates this message by juxtaposing the idea of ashes, which are typically associated with death and destruction, with the notion of trees blooming, which symbolizes life, growth, and renewal.

It underscores the resilience of nature and the human spirit. Despite the catastrophic eruption and the immediate devastation, life returns, much like the rebirth of trees after a forest fire. It conveys a profound message of hope and the enduring power of the natural world to heal and regenerate.

In essence, the title serves as a metaphorical representation of the story's central theme: the ashes of destruction can indeed give rise to the blossoming of new life and the enduring spirit of renewal.

6. What emotions and thoughts does the journalist experience when he revisits the eruption site a year later?

Answer: When the journalist revisits the eruption site a year after the cataclysmic event, he experiences a complex mix of emotions and thoughts. The landscape, once a scene of desolation and destruction, has undergone a remarkable transformation, and this transformation evokes a profound response in him. One predominant emotion the journalist feels is a sense of awe. He is awe-struck by the regenerative power of nature. The once-barren landscape, covered in ash and debris, has become a testament to nature's ability to rebound and renew itself. The emergence of new life, the growth of trees and plants, and the return of wildlife all inspire a deep sense of wonder and reverence. The journalist also experiences a deep sense of humility. The enormity of the eruption and the subsequent renewal of life emphasize the insignificance of human beings in the grand scheme of nature. It serves as a reminder that, while humans can have a profound impact on the environment, nature ultimately holds the power to heal and regenerate. There is also a sense of reflection that washes over the journalist. The transformation of the landscape prompts him to contemplate the passage of time and the resilience of life. He reflects on the ephemerality of human existence and the enduring nature of the natural world. The journalist's emotions are not limited to awe, humility, and reflection. He also experiences a sense of hope. The transformation of the landscape is a symbol of hope and renewal, a reminder that even in the face of devastation, there is the potential for growth and recovery. Additionally, the journalist feels a profound connection to the land and its history. The eruption site becomes a place of meaning and significance, not just as a witness to destruction but as a testimony to the indomitable spirit of life. The thoughts that run through the journalist's mind are those of astonishment and appreciation. He is astonished by the power of nature and appreciates the beauty of the reborn landscape. He recognizes the importance of preserving and protecting the environment. In summary, the journalist's emotions and thoughts are marked by awe, humility, reflection, hope, and a deep sense of connection to the natural world. His visit to the eruption site serves as a transformative experience, reshaping his perspective on nature and life's ability to endure and flourish.

7. How does "The Ashes that Made Trees Bloom" convey the intricate relationship between humans and nature?

Answer: "The Ashes that Made Trees Bloom" conveys the intricate and symbiotic relationship between humans and nature by showcasing the impact of a natural disaster on human lives and the subsequent response of both people and the environment. The eruption of Mount St. Helens serves as a powerful reminder of the profound influence that nature can have on human existence. The eruption was a force of nature beyond human control, and its consequences were catastrophic. Homes were destroyed, lives were lost, and entire communities were disrupted. It underscores the vulnerability of human beings in the face of natural forces. In the story, we see the initial impact of the eruption—chaos, destruction, and the disruption of normalcy. The eruption challenges human resilience and adaptability. People are forced to confront the unpredictability of nature and grapple with the need to rebuild their lives. Simultaneously, the story highlights the capacity of humans to influence and interact with their environment. The decision of Harry Truman to stay in his lodge, despite evacuation orders, is an assertion of human agency and the assertion of will against nature. His story becomes a symbol of human determination and independence. The response of the local community, as they use the ash from the eruption to