The Laburnum Top – Ted Hughes
Introduction
- A short, lyrical poem by Ted Hughes.
- Describes the laburnum tree in autumn and how it comes alive when a goldfinch (a small bird) arrives.
- Symbolises the connection between nature and life, stillness and activity, death and renewal.
Summary
- Opening Scene
- The laburnum tree is described as silent, still, and bare in autumn.
- Its yellow leaves are turning pale, and it seems almost lifeless.
- Arrival of the Goldfinch
- Suddenly, a goldfinch arrives at the tree.
- Her presence fills the tree with sound, movement, and energy.
- She makes a quick, sleek movement like a “lizard,” symbolising alertness and sharpness.
- Transformation of the Tree
- The tree, once lifeless, now seems alive and vibrant.
- The goldfinch feeds her young ones hidden in the nest.
- The whole tree seems to “tremble” and “thrill” with life.
- Departure of the Bird
- After feeding her chicks, the goldfinch flies away.
- Silence returns, and the laburnum once again becomes quiet and still.
Themes
- Life and Death: Tree looks lifeless, but the bird brings vitality.
- Nature’s Cycles: Change between stillness and activity shows the rhythm of life.
- Motherhood and Care: The goldfinch represents a mother’s nurturing instinct.
- Interdependence: Nature and creatures rely on each other for energy and meaning.
Important Imagery
- Autumn laburnum: Symbol of decline, barrenness.
- Goldfinch: Symbol of vitality, energy, and care.
- Nestlings: Symbol of continuity of life and hope.
- Tree trembling and thrilling: Suggests sudden life and movement.
Poetic Devices
- Alliteration: “September sunlight,” “sleek as a lizard.”
- Simile: Movement of the bird compared to a lizard.
- Personification: Tree is described as “thrilling” and “trembling” with life.
- Imagery: Vivid description of silence, stillness, and sudden energy.
- Symbolism: Tree = lifelessness; bird = life and renewal.
Tone and Mood
- Tone: Reflective, observant, calm yet filled with wonder.
- Mood: Starts with stillness, shifts to liveliness, then back to calmness.
Exam Value Points
- The poem reflects contrast between silence and activity.
- Shows the dependence of life on nature.
- Highlights the role of motherhood and nurturing in sustaining life.
- Demonstrates Hughes’ deep connection with the natural world.