CLASS-XII (Important Answers From Poetry)

MBOSE CLASS-12

IMPORTANT ANSWERS FROM POETRY

 LESSONS:

1. A Thing Of Beauty - John Keats

2. And So It Eventually Happened - R. Parthasarathy

3. Keeping Quiet - Pablo Neruda

4. Caring For Animals - John Silkin

[Click on the above lessons to watch full explanations]

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A THING OF BEAUTY

Questions
(a)How is a thing of beauty a joy for ever ?
(b)What do you understand by a ‘bower’?
(c)What kind of sleep does it provide?

Answer:

(a) A thing of beauty is the source of constant joy. Its beauty goes on increasing. It will never pass into nothingness.

(b) A bower is a pleasant place in the shade under a tree. It protects persons and animals from the hot rays of the sun.

(c) It provides us a sound sleep, full of sweet dreams, health and peaceful breathing.

Q. List the things of beauty mentioned in the poem.

Answers: Nature is full of beautiful things that bring us pleasure. Some examples include the sun, the moon, both old and young trees, daffodil flowers, small streams with clear water, masses of ferns, and blooming musk-roses. These natural wonders constantly bring us joy and happiness.

Q. List the things that cause suffering and pain.
 
Answers: There are numerous factors that can bring us suffering and pain. Among them, malice and disappointment stand out as significant sources of our distress. Additionally, the absence of noble qualities contributes to our suffering. Our unhealthy and immoral behaviors also lead to various troubles and hardships, weighing down our spirits and casting a shadow of sadness over our lives.

Q. How does a thing of beauts provide us shelter and comfort?

Answer: John Keats is considered a great poet from the Romantic era. He is known for his rich and vivid descriptions of the senses. Nature offers us many things of extraordinary beauty, providing a peaceful retreat under its shade. A beautiful thing can also bring us peace and a sense of security. It allows us to enjoy a deep and restful sleep, filled with pleasant dreams, good health, and calm breathing.

Q. How do us bind our self to the earth every morning?

Answer: All the Romantic poets emphasize the connection between humans and nature. Keats believes that there's a strong, unbreakable bond between humans and the natural world. People are fascinated by the beauty of the earth, finding happiness in every aspect of nature. Each natural object is a source of joy and beauty. Every day, we are creating a beautiful wreath of flowers that ties us to the earth's wonders.

Q. What spreads the pall of despondence over our dark spirits? How is it removed?

Answer: Humans create their own problems. Their own actions and nature bring misery into their lives. They experience pain and suffering, feeling hopeless and discouraged. However, beauty can provide a glimmer of hope. It has the power to uplift us from our despair and brighten our spirits.

Q. Why and how is ‘grandeur associated with the ‘mighty dead’?

Answer: The day of reckoning, known as doomsday, is when people believe that those who have passed away will finally receive their just rewards. Our respected ancestors, who performed noble deeds, gained fame and recognition during their lives. It's believed that they will be honored with great splendor and glory in the afterlife.

Q. What is the message of the poem ‘A Thing of Beauty’?

Answer: The opening line of John Keats' message is that he believed in the power of beauty. Keats, a renowned Romantic poet, revered beauty as a fundamental aspect of truth. He believed that beauty endures eternally and brings joy without diminishing over time. Even in times of sorrow and suffering, beauty has the ability to lift us up and bring us happiness. Therefore, Keats saw beauty as a valuable gift for humanity.

Q. Why does Keats feel that a thing of beauty is a joy forever?

Answer: Keats believed that everything that is beautiful exudes happiness. It is a treasure that gains value as one looks at it. As a result, beautiful things like the sun, moon, trees, lambs, daffodils, and clear streams radiate beauty and make us happy in different ways. Any beautiful thing sets up a pleasant, shaded space where our emotions can rest. Similar to how the refreshing shade of trees shields us from the heat, beauty transports us to a place of happiness and peace. For the viewer, magnificent pieces of art and exquisite tales penned by brilliant minds are never-ending sources of happiness.

It is inevitable for all people to experience some level of grief and hardship throughout their lifetime. Nobody can claim that he is not dealing with these issues. Furthermore, nobody can escape suffering or unfortunate events. Even in the face of such darkness and despair, when we see beauty, our imagination whisks us away to a carefree place. In his brief life, the poet had experienced heartbreak and adversity. At that time, he came to understand that beauty, whether it comes from nature or art, serves a much greater purpose than just making the beholder happy.

Q. Describe the things that help John Keats to lift his spirits.

Answer: Keats believed that everything that is beautiful exudes happiness. It is a treasure that gains value as one looks at it. As a result, beautiful things like the sun, moon, trees, lambs, daffodils, and clear streams radiate beauty and make us happy in different ways. Any beautiful thing sets up a pleasant, shaded space where our emotions can rest. Similar to how the refreshing shade of trees shields us from the heat, beauty transports us to a place of happiness and peace. For the viewer, magnificent pieces of art and exquisite tales penned by brilliant minds are never-ending sources of happiness.

Every human being is destined to experience some sorrow and hardship throughout their lifetime. Nobody can claim that he is not dealing with these issues. Furthermore, nobody can escape suffering or sadness. Even in the face of such despair, when we see beauty, our imagination whisks us away to a carefree time. The sun, moon, trees, sheep, daffodils, and clear streams, among other lovely natural items, radiate beauty and offer a pleasant, shaded space where our emotions might find comfort. Similar to how the refreshing shade of trees shields us from the heat, beauty transports us to a place of happiness and peace.

In his brief life, the poet had experienced heartbreak and adversity. At that time, he came to understand that beauty, whether it comes from nature or art, serves a much greater purpose than just making the beholder happy.


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AND SO IT EVENTUALLY HAPPENED

Click the link below to read the full summary for questions and answers:

https://www.omnigyan.net/2024/02/and-so-it-eventually-happened-short.html 

 

Q. Describe the emotional bond experienced by the family members during the reunion.

Answers: In this poem, the poet explores the deep emotional connection felt by family members during a reunion. The family had been apart for a significant period, not keeping in touch through visits or letters. Consequently, they initially struggle to recognize each other. However, the strong familial bond eventually shines through. Once the initial awkwardness dissipates, they engage in conversation as if they had never been separated. They reminisce about their shared childhood memories and fondly recall spending time together during a meal of rice and pickle.

Q. How does the family reunion rekindle old memories?
 
Answer: In the poem titled "And So It Eventually Happened," the poet reflects on a traditional Indian family reunion. He describes the arrival of relatives in overcrowded buses typical of India. The first four stanzas depict the family coming together after a prolonged separation. Due to the long interval between reunions, they struggle to recognize each other at first. However, once formalities are exchanged, they gather on the steps of a large hall, reminiscing about their childhood while enjoying a meal of rice and pickle.

The poet then shifts focus to Sundari, highlighting the changes time has wrought in their individual lives. Each family member has evolved, and this transformation becomes evident as the poet comments on Sundari. Once a young girl climbing tamarind trees in a long skirt alongside the poet, she is now a forty-year-old woman with her own daughters by her side.

Q. When was for the last time the whole family got together? What was the general feeling of the family members at the next meeting? Where was the next reunion being held?

Answer: The last occasion the entire family gathered was back in March 1959, when the poet's grandfather had died. The family, which had drifted apart after his death, is reuniting after many years of separation.
 
During this gathering, there was a strong sense of familiarity and closeness among family members as they shared in the collective sorrow. The third stanza reveals a difficulty in recognizing each other due to the long absence, clouding instant familiarity. After the initial meeting, family members adopt a cross-legged sitting position, symbolizing their reunion. The reunion occurs "this year," with the speaker's cousins arriving in Tiruchchanur on overcrowded private buses. It's evident that there has been a significant disconnect among family members for an extended period. They are reminiscing about their childhood while enjoying a meal of rice and pickle.

The upcoming reunion is scheduled to take place in a large hall. The phrase 'overcrowded private buses' suggest that the common mode of transport was buses.

Q. What kind of relation did the poet R. Parthasarathy have with Sundari in their childhood? What change did the poet notice in her when the reunion of the family took place?

Answer: Sundari was a cousin and a childhood friend of the poet. He could remember her climbing tamarind trees with him every morning.

During the reunion, the poet observed that she had matured into a forty-year-old woman. She was married and had three daughters who remained constantly by her side. The poet likened her daughters to planets orbiting around Sundari, who represented the sun. Just as planets revolve around the sun, her daughters remained close to her, finding safety, comfort, and warmth in her presence.

Q. Justify the title of the poem.

Ans: The title "And so it eventually happened" is justified in the context of the passage because it refers to the long-awaited reunion of the family members. The poem begins with the anticipation of this event, which eventually occurs after a significant period of separation following the grandfather's passing in 1959. Despite the family drifting apart after this loss, the reunion eventually takes place "this year," indicating that it was a long-awaited and anticipated event. The gathering itself signifies the culmination of a process or journey, as family members reconnect and come together after years of disconnect. The title reflects the inevitability and fulfillment of this anticipated event, marking a significant moment in the family's history.

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KEEPING QUIET

Q. Does Pablo Neruda recommend total inactivity in Keeping Quiet? Discuss this with examples from the text.

Answer:  Pablo Neruda is not recommending total inactivity in his poem 'Keeping Quiet.' Instead, he suggests the importance of valuable moments spent in reflection. He doesn't propose an abrupt halt to all activities; rather, he encourages us to pause and consider the significance of thoughtful contemplation. At times, it's more beneficial to refrain from action and engage in meaningful interaction with others, rather than toil over destructive pursuits. Humanity's insatiable desire for more has led to its own downfall, resulting in conflicts like gas wars and environmental disasters.

Q. Why would it be an exotic moment when we stop talking? What do the words 'rush' and 'engine' bring to mind?

Answer: Continuous activity, excessive haste, and noise have made our lives unpleasant, filled with suffering, pain, and difficulties. It's imperative that we cease rushing, hurrying, worrying, and constantly being on the move. Even the clamor of engines and machines should come to a halt, if only momentarily. Then, each of us will experience the sudden novelty of that instant. It will be an unparalleled moment. In that exotic moment, we will experience complete relaxation, both physically and mentally.

The words 'rush' brings to mind the hustle and bustle of life as men go about their business and the word 'engine' brings to mind the factories and industries, cars and trains, and the various machines that indicate the activities of mankind.

Q. "Death brings about stillness". Explain with examples from the poem.

OR

Q. What is the central idea of the poem?

Answer: In his poem, Pablo Neruda discusses the importance of self-reflection and understanding our inner selves. He begins by emphasizing the need to pause and contemplate, suggesting a moment of silence where humanity collectively reflects on their actions. He highlights the constant activity and noise that surrounds us, proposing a break from the hustle and bustle to truly connect with ourselves and others.

Neruda criticizes aggressive behavior, particularly activities harmful to both humanity and the planet. He condemns actions such as killing animals, exploiting natural resources, and waging wars that harm the earth and its inhabitants. Instead, he urges a more constructive approach, considering the future of the planet and fostering meaningful relationships.

The poet clarifies that advocating for stillness doesn't mean advocating for complete inactivity. He acknowledges the importance of life continuing but warns against a relentless pursuit of progress that disregards deeper contemplation. He suggests that by listening to our inner selves, we can understand the world's sorrow and perhaps find solutions to our perpetual struggles.

Neruda draws parallels between human behavior and nature, pointing out that even in apparent dormancy, life continues to thrive. He uses the example of winter, where trees shed their leaves yet new life quietly sprouts beneath the surface, symbolizing renewal and resilience.

Q. How does the poet distinguish ‘stillness’ from ‘total inactivity’? Why does Neruda say "I want no truck with death"?

Answer: Pablo Neruda appreciates moments of stillness and silence, advocating for their value in life. Taking time to be quiet and calm is important to him. However, he distinguishes this from total inactivity, which he equates with a complete halt in all work, akin to death itself. Neruda emphasizes that while stillness is beneficial, it should not be confused with a state of complete inactivity. Life continues to progress even during moments of quiet reflection. He firmly rejects the notion of embracing or accepting total inactivity as it resembles death too closely for his liking. Instead, Neruda chooses to remain engaged with life, refusing to entertain thoughts or associations with death. For him, there is no concept of complete stagnation or cessation of all activity; rather, life persists in its continuous flow despite occasional pauses for stillness and reflection.

By the phrase ‘I want no truck with death’,the poet means, he does not want lifelessness such as total inactivity. Silence has to be only a brief moment of introspection or self-reflection.

Q. Justify the title ‘Keeping Quiet’.

Answer: The poem's title aptly signifies the importance of thoughtful self-reflection. In today's fast-paced world, people are constantly busy, leading to various problems and hardships. Embracing quietness can be beneficial, shielding individuals from harmful and aggressive behavior. Additionally, it encourages contemplation on humanity's destiny and fosters empathy among people.

 He firmly rejects the notion of embracing or accepting total inactivity as it resembles death too closely for his liking. Instead, Neruda chooses to remain engaged with life, refusing to entertain thoughts or associations with death. For him, there is no concept of complete stagnation or cessation of all activity; rather, life persists in its continuous flow despite occasional pauses for stillness and reflection.


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CARING FOR ANIMALS

Q. In the poem, Caring for Animals, how does man inflict cruelty on animals?

Answer: Animals suffer abuse from man in a variety of ways. The poet visualises a lengthy queue of animals being mistreated by people in a variety of ways. He is referring to the horses that are wheezing under the weight of their hefty loads and the dogs that have had their ears cut. He portrays a procession that is not joyous. The animals' "whimpering" and "patching" convey the brutality of their owners. The majority of people believe that animals are useless or a nuisance. They whip cats without hesitation, and they trap squirrels without giving any thought.

Q. Describe how a person's feelings evolve as he or she helps a hapless animal.

Answer: A poem by Jon Silkin makes a powerful case for treating all of God's creations with more compassion. Pictures of horses pulling carts and dogs with cropped ears alert us to the abuse of animals by people. By implying that animals experience pain and have feelings just like people do, the poet has brought animals up to parity with humans. The majority of people believe that animals are unneeded or bothersome. They lash cats without hesitation, and they trap squirrels without hesitation. However, we also gain when we treat animals with care. The poet claims that the best way to cultivate "love," which intensifies daily, is to show mercy to animals.

Q. What is Jon Silkin's message in the poem, Caring for Animals?

Answer: The poet makes a heartfelt plea for treating all of God's creations with more compassion. Is the animal the only one that benefits when someone assists an animal in distress? Has the person providing assistance changed in any way? Describe the changes in a person's emotions when they assist a poor animal.

A poem by Jon Silkin makes a powerful case for treating all of God's creations with more compassion. Pictures of 'dogs with trimmed ears' and horses pulling carts raise awareness of how poorly people treat animals. By implying that animals experience pain and have feelings just like people do, the poet has brought animals up to parity with humans. The majority of people believe that animals are needless or bothersome. They lash cats without hesitation, and they trap squirrels without hesitation too. However, we also gain when we treat animals with care. As the poet puts it, the best way to cultivate "love," which grows everyday, is to show mercy to animals.

Q. What is the moving appeal made by Silkin for the better treatment of animals? In what way will that help us too?

Answer: A poem by Jon Silkin makes a powerful case for treating all of God's creations with more compassion. Pictures of 'dogs with trimmed ears' and horses pulling carts raise awareness of how poorly people treat animals. By implying that animals experience pain and have feelings just like people do, the poet has brought animals up to parity with humans. The majority of people believe that animals are needless or bothersome. They lash cats without hesitation, and they trap squirrels without hesitation. However, we also gain when we treat animals with care. As the poet puts it, the best way to nurture "love," which blossoms daily, is to show mercy to animals.

Humans will gain from better treatment of animals in a number of ways, such as when we offer them compassion and affection. It will be possible for man to love not just animals but all people. He will acquire mercy, gentleness, and sympathy, and his immense love will only deepen with time.

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