Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Leisure
By
William Davies
Stanza No 1:
1:
Meanings:
Meanings:
Reference:
Reference:
These lines have been taken from Leisure written by William Davies
Davies.
Context:
Context:
In this poem shows his sadness over the busy life of modern man. He says that people are
so much busy in their worldly affairs that they even have no time to enjoy life. They do not have
time to look around and enjoy beautiful objects of nature.
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet says that our life is useless if it is full of worldly worries and
cares. We are so much busy that we have no time to stand and look at the beauty around us. Even we
have no time to stand under a tree and look its beautiful boughs. He criticizes the modern man by
saying that the cows and sheep have time to watch the beauty of trees but unfortunately we have no
time to enjoy this beauty of nature. Actually in these lines the poet warns us on our rushed life and
advises us to spare some time to relax.
Stanza 2:
2:
Meanings:
Meanings:
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet shows his sadness on the busy life of modern man. He says
that we are in so much hurry that we even not have time to enjoy the ordinary beauties of nature.
While passing through woods we do not watch squirrels playing and hiding there nuts in grass. We
even not enjoy the beauty of running brooks and streams. When the light of sun reflects from the
water it looks like the sky full of stars in night. Here again he shows his sadness by saying that man
has no time to watch this charming scene. In short, in the whole stanza is full of writers woe over
business of modern man.
Stanza 3:
3:
Meanings:
Meanings:
Glance---&, enrich---()*
Explanation:
Explanation:
In early lines of the poem, the poet talks about different beauties of nature that we miss
due to our rushed life. But in these lines, the poet refers to the human beauty. He says that apart from
other beauties of nature man also does not enjoy human beauty that is always seen singing and
dancing around him. Here he describes human beauty in the form of a young girl, who wants to
share her smile with us. She wants to show her different dancing gestures. But, man is so much busy
that he even not waits for so little time to see that smile that began from her eyes to reach her mouth.
In the ending lines of the poem, here again the poet shows his disgust over the business of man. He
says that it would be a poor life if it is full of worldly of cares and worries.
2-Tartary
By
Walter De La Mare
Stanza 1:
1:
Reference:
Reference:
Context:
Context:
These lines have been taken from the poem Tartary written by Walter De La Mare.
It is a dream poem in which the poet describes an imaginary land and he calls it Tartary.
It is a romantic place for enjoyment and has all the luxuries of life. Actually, the poet is fed up of
miseries of life so much that he does not want to live in this cruel society which is full of sorrows
and troubles. Thats why he creates an imaginary land though his imagination in which he hopes to
enjoy all the comforts of life.
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet shows his wish of ruling over the land of Tartary. He does not
want to share his kingship with anyone and wants to rule this imaginary land alone. Then he
describes different luxuries of this dream land. He says that for relaxing his bed should be made of
ivory. Apart from that his royal seat should not be an ordinary one rather it should be made of pure
gold. In short, these starting lines gives little glimpse of the luxuries that the poet wishes to enjoy in
this dream land.
Stanza 2:
2:
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet gives a little more detail about his dream land Tartary. He
wishes that his court should be so magnificent that peacocks should dance in it. He would like to see
tigers hunting in his forests. In the pools of his imaginary land big and beautiful fishes should swim.
The fins of these fishes should be so beautiful that it reflects the bright rays of sun. In short, in these
lines, the poet provides a beautiful picture of his beautiful imaginary land.
Stanza 3:
Explanation:
Explanation:
In the starting line of this stanza, the poet again shows his desire of ruling over the
land of Tartary. Then in the coming lines he describes different royal features of his court. He
desires that there would be trumpeters in his court who on the time of every meal should call him by
playing their trumpets in a loud voice. In short, in these lines the poet gives a beautiful picture of his
royal life.
Stanza 4:
4:
]
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet gives an evening picture of his dreamy land. He says that in the
evening lamps would shine in his court. The light of these lamps should be as yellow as honey and
as red as wine. He wishes that musical instruments like harp, flute and mandolin should be played by
musicians in court. The combination of these musical instruments would create and sweet and
pleasant effect. In short, in these lines the poet has given a romantic description of nights of
Tartary.
Stanza 5:
5:
Explanation
Explanation:
lanation:
In the beginning line of this stanza, the poet again shows his desire of ruling over the
land of Tartary. Then, in the proceeding lines, he gives details about his magnificent dress. He
says that he would wear a long gown that will be made up countless green and golden beads. This
shows that not only he wants his land a symbol of beauty but wants beautiful things for himself also.
This shows that he himself wants to be beautiful and charming just like his dream land Tartary.
Stanza 6:
6:
,Glades--- + ( (
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet gives some details about what he wants for himself in that
dream land Tartary. He says that before the morning stars starts disappearing he would wear his
grand dress and curved sword and would go out for morning walk on his carriage. That carriage
would be drawn by seven zebra through the open spaces in the thick forests of Tartary. In short,
these lines show the Tartary as well as his own glory.
Stanza 7:
7:
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet describes one by one those things on which he wants to rule in
the land of Tartary. He wants to be the master of different fruit of Tartary. He wants to rule over
the silver pale rivers of it. He shows his desire to rule over almost all the things of his dream land.
He wants unchallenged authority over hills, valleys and small forests etc. In short, here again in
these lines the poet shows his desire of ruling over his imaginary land without any partner.
Stanza 8:
8:
Meanings
Meanings of the difficult words:
words:
Explanation:
Explanation:
These are last lines of this beautiful imaginary poem. In these lines, the poet says that
the sky of his land would be full of bright stars. The breeze would be fragrant. The water of shaking
lakes would present a charming scene. The water of these lakes would be as clear as the water of
foamless seas. There would be citron trees with birds sitting on them. These birds would be singing
delightful songs. Every valley of that beautiful land would be full of purple flowers and leaves. In
short, in these lines the poet gives a beautiful description of his dream land Tartary.
Elizabeth Sewell
Stanza 1:
1:
I will drain
Long draughts of quite
As a purgation:
Reference:
Reference:
Sewell
ewell.
These lines have been taken from the poem New Year Resolution written by Elizabeth
Context:
Context:
It is small but very impressive poem. In this poem, the poetess describes her intentions in a
delightful manner at the approach of New Year. Usually, people celebrate New Year by drinking
wine or doing other such useless things. But, the poetess doesnt want to waste her time in such
useless things. She wants to celebrate the arrival of New Year in a different style by learning bitter
realities of life and making resolution for her future life.
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines the poetess throws light on her New Year resolutions. She wants to drain
her self by long draughts of quite. Now the draining of long draughts is commonly associated with
drinking wine. But, she wants to drink in quite, as a means of purifying herself. Quite is a symbol of
calmness and purity and this is what she wants to achieve.
Stanza 2:
2:
Remember
Twice daily
Who I am;
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poetess shows her second intention, what she wants to do in New
Year. Actually, she wants to learn form her past shortcomings and defects. In a day, she wants to
remember her reality twice. She doesnt want to forget her reality but wants to know purpose of her
creation. She wants to know her objective in life and her rights and duties towards others. In short,
through these lines the poetess makes us to realize our purpose of reality.
Stanza 3:
3:
Same as above.
Explanation:
Explanation:
In the ending lines of this short poem, the poetess gives her third intention on New
Year. The poetess doesnt want to spend her nights in sound sleeps rather she wants to know
realities of life. She has a desire to spend her nights while staying in the bony arms of reality. She
will feel comfortable while knowing the realities of life. Actually, the bony arms of reality refer
towards the bones without flesh that is realities in their true sense. In short, she wants to know the
realities of life though how bitter they are.
4- Woman Work
By
Maya Angelou
Stanza 1:
1:
Tend--- ( 4 Q
, Mend---( #, Mop---( M.
Reference:
Reference:
Context
Context:
xt:
These lines have been taken from the poem Women Work by Maya Angelou
Angelou.
This poem presents the miserable state of a workingwoman and her wish to live an ideal
life. The poetess has shown different phases of her daily life. Basically, it is poetesss desire to
escape from dull routine of life and having the company of nature.
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poetess shows light on some the works a woman has to do in her
daily life. She says that a woman has to do a lot of work in a day. She has to attend the children and
then has to arrange their clothes. Then she has to clean her house to make it look attractive. That is
not enough she goes to bazaar to buy something for cooking. In short, life of a house wife is not an
easy one rather it is full of dull routines.
Stanza 2:
2:
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poetess shows light on some the works a woman has to do in her daily life.
She says that a woman has to do a lot of work in a day. She has to prepare meal for her family by
frying chicken. She has to dry the baby. But babies are not the only ones to look after she has a
whole family to look after. Then, she has to clean weed her garden to make it look beautiful. In
short, life of a house wife is not an easy one rather it is full of dull routines.
Stanza 3:
3:
Tots---4 , Cane---TU !.
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poetess shows light on some the works a woman has to do in her daily life.
She says that a woman has to do a lot of work in a day. The working woman says that she has iron
the clothes and then dress her small children for school. To add her miseries she has cut the cane and
to clean her hut to look it beautiful. In short, life of a house wife is not an easy one rather it is full
of dull routines.
Stanza 4:
Explanation:
Explanation:
This poem is written in two parts. The initial part describes the routine works of a house wife,
while the second part is about her desire of being in the company of nature. These lines belong to the
second part of the poem. Here in these lines the poetess shows different desires of a woman. After
spending a tiresome routine life, the woman of this poem desires to have some relief in her life. For
this she wishes for sunshine and rain. She asks dew drops to fall on her and cool her eye brow.
Stanza 5:
5:
Explanation:
Explanation:
This poem is written in two parts. The initial part describes the routine works of a house wife,
while the second part is about her desire of being in the company of nature. These lines belong to the
second part of the poem. Here in these lines the poetess shows different desires of a woman. After
spending a tiresome routine life, the woman of this poem desires to have some relief in her life. She
asks wind storms to float across the sky and take her away from this dull life to a world where she
may get some rest and peace. In fact, she wants to run away from this dull and drab life through her
imagination.
Stanza 6:
6:
10
Same as above.
Explanation:
Explanation:
This poem is written in two parts. The initial part describes the routine works of a house wife,
while the second part is about her desire of being in the company of nature. These lines belong to the
second part of the poem. Here in these lines the poetess shows different desires of a woman. After
spending a tiresome routine life, the woman of this poem desires to have some relief in her life. In
these lines, she asks snow flakes to fall on her and cover her all over. She wants to feel the cold of
these flakes. In the last line, she again shows her desire of taking rest. This desire clearly throws
light on her miserable life.
Stanza 7:
7:
Meanings of difficult
difficult words:
words:
Explanation:
Explanation:
This poem is written in two parts. The initial part describes the routine works of a house wife,
while the second part is about her desire of being in the company of nature. These lines belong to the
second part of the poem. Here in these lines the poetess shows different desires of a woman. After
spending a tiresome routine life, the woman of this poem desires to have some relief in her life. She
wants to call and wants to be among the snowy mountains, glittering sky, vast oceans, sparkling
stars and other objects of nature. She hopes that these objects of nature will bring happiness in her
dismal life.
5- The Rebel
By
D.J. Enright
Stanza 1:
1:
11
Reference:
Reference:
Context:
Context:
These lines have been taken from the poem The Rebel written by D.J. Enright
Enright.
In this poem, the poet tells us about the funny behaviour of in a humorous manner. A rebel
tries to be different from others. He acts against the old traditions and customs of the society.
Actually, such persons want to become prominent among the people and for that he adopts funny
ways.
Explanation
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet describes the strange and funny attitude of a rebel in a delightful manner. He
amuses us by explaining various odd and awkward habits of a rebel. He says that a rebel always go
against the acts of normal people. The poet says that when there is a fashion of short hair, the rebel
likes to have long hair. But, when the people like to have long hair, a rebel prefers to have short hair.
In short, he wants to reject all the words and deeds of normal people to show himself different and
prominent.
Stanza 2:
2:
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet describes the strange and funny attitude of a rebel in a delightful
manner. He amuses us by explaining various odd and awkward habits of a rebel. He says that a rebel
always go against the acts of normal people. The poet says that he talks during the lesson when
others are quite and remain dumb when others are busy in conversation. In short, he wants to reject
all the words and deeds of normal people to show himself different and prominent.
Stanza 3:
3:
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet describes the strange and funny attitude of a rebel in a delightful
manner. He amuses us by explaining various odd and awkward habits of a rebel. He says that a rebel
always go against the acts of normal people. The poet says that he dresses in colourful clothes when
others wear simple clothes and wears simple clothes on joyful occasion. In short, he wants to reject
all the words and deeds of normal people to show himself different and prominent.
Stanza 4:
4:
12
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet describes the strange and funny attitude of a rebel in a delightful
manner. He amuses us by explaining various odd and awkward habits of a rebel. He says that a rebel
always go against the acts of normal people. The poet says that he starts loving cats in the presence
of dog lovers and talks about dogs when people appreciate cats. In short, he wants to reject all the
words and deeds of normal people to show himself different and prominent.
Stanza 5:
5:
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet describes the strange and funny attitude of a rebel in a delightful
manner. He amuses us by explaining various odd and awkward habits of a rebel. He says that a rebel
always go against the acts of normal people. The poet says that when everybody wishes for sun, he
prays for rain, but feels sad at the absence of sun on a rainy day. In short, he wants to reject all the
words and deeds of normal people to show himself different and prominent.
Stanza 6:
6:
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet describes the strange and funny attitude of a rebel in a delightful
manner. He amuses us by explaining various odd and awkward habits of a rebel. He says that a rebel
always go against the acts of normal people. The poet says that when people enjoys meeting, he
prefers to remain at home and reads a book. But leaves home on seeing others staying indoor and
reading books. In short, he wants to reject all the words and deeds of normal people to show himself
different and prominent.
Stanza 7:
7:
When everybody
everybody says, Yes please!
13
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet describes the strange and funny attitude of a rebel in a delightful
manner. He amuses us by explaining various odd and awkward habits of a rebel. He says that a rebel
always go against the acts of normal people. The poet says that when others say Yes, he says No,
but says Yes when others No. In short, he wants to reject all the words and deeds of normal
people to show himself different and prominent.
Stanza 8:
8:
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet describes the strange and funny attitude of a rebel in a delightful
manner. He amuses us by explaining various odd and awkward habits of a rebel. He says that a rebel
always go against the acts of normal people. In these ending lines of the poem the poet says that it is
a good thing that we have rebels in our society because they provide variety in life. But, at the same
time he reminds us that we should not be one of such creature.
Robert Browning
Stanza
Stanza 1:
1:
14
Reference:
Reference:
Browning
Browning.
These lines have been taken from the poem Patriot into Traitor written by Robert
Context:
Context:
This poem is a fantastic monologue. In this poem, he has tried to show the tragic
circumstances of a great political hero. This hero was once worshiped as demi-god by the people.
But due to some political revolution, he is now considered as a traitor.
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines the political hero describes the scene of his welcome a year ago. He says
that when a year ago he entered the city people decorated and filled his path with roses and myrtle.
There was a great crowd of people on the roofs of the houses who want to have a glance of him. The
people were so much in number that it looks as the roofs were breathing and shaking. The people
were carrying colourful flags that were standing tall as church spires. These flags swung like flames.
But, this all happened a year ago and now the time for political hero has changed.
Stanza 2:
2
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines the political hero describes how people welcome him a year ago. He says that
people rang bells in so much that the air broke into mist. It looked as the walls of city were swinging
with the voices and cries of the people. He says that people were ready to do anything for him. If he
had asked to bring son from the sky they would have brought it. This was not enough then they
would have asked him, what more they can do for him. But, this all happened a year ago and now
the time for political hero has changed.
Stanza 3:
3:
15
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the hero shows his sadness on his miserable plight after one year. He says that
he did great works for the people. He even did such a kind of works that no other could do. But, alas,
he trusted his friends, which was his fault. He is sure that he does not deserve all what is now
happening with him after one year time.
Stanza 4:
4:
Palsied---Z4 4 [4, Shambles gate--- 4E, Scaffolds foot--- 5
, Trow--- >JU
( *(.
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the hero of the poem describes his bad conditions after passing of one year. He
says that now there are no people on house tops to welcome him. There are only few weak, sick and
tired people, sitting in the windows. But, they are not here to greet him; they are sitting here to
witness his tragic end. He is being taken to scaffolds foot for hanging. So the scene has changed
with in only one year.
Stanza 5:
5:
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the hero of the poem describes his bad condition after passing of one year. He
says that he has been arrested for his so called misdeeds of last year. He is being dragged in rain. His
hands are roped behind and his wrists are bleeding. He feels that his forehead is bleeding, as
everyone is throwing stones at him. In short, the hero is really in a miserable condition with in a
year.
16
Stanza 6:
6:
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the hero of the poem describes his bad condition after passing of one year. He
says that the people often are killed when they are in power. He also wishes that he would also have
killed when he was in power. Then he would not have to bear this insult. However, he shows some
hope. He thought, though he has met a tragic end in this world, he will definitely be rewarded by
God in the next world, for his services during his political career. Therefore, he feels safer after all
the sufferings of his life.
The Huntsman
By
Edward Lowbury
Stanza 1:
Reference:
Lowbury
Lowbury.
Context:
These lines have been taken from the poem The Huntsman written by Edward
17
This poem is actually story of a huntsman, who falls a victim of his own foolishness. He
finds a talking skull in the forest and without knowing its reality discloses this fact to the king. In the
result of which, he has to face the most uncertain circumstance of his life.
Explanation:
This poem is a fine example of Kenyan folk lore. Kagwa was a hunter. He used to hunt lions
with his spear in the forest. One day, when he was wandering through bushes and trees, he finds a
talking skull of a man. He asked the skull, how it came here. The skull answered him that talking
brought him here. These are opening lines of the poem and set a tragic background of huntsmans
story.
Stanza 2:
Explanation:
When Kagwa found a talking skull in the forest, he at once went to the court of the king to
tell him about it. He told the king that he had found a skull in the forest that can speak. On hearing
this, the king first struck silent. Then he spoke slowly that he has never seen or heard about such a
skull since his birth.
Stanza 3:
Explanation:
When Kagwa told the king about the talking skull, he decided to know reality. He asked his
two guards to go with Kagwa and find the talking skull. But at the same time the king ordered his
guards to go with Kagwa and find the truth ness of his story. He also said to them that if they did not
find such a skull or the skull did not speak a word, they must kill Kagwa. From here onwards the
real misfortune of Kagwa started.
Stanza 4:
They
They rode into the forest;
For days and nights they found nothing
18
Explanation:
When Kagwa tells the king about the skull, he sent two of his guards with Kagwa to know the
reality of his story. They all rode on horses and went to forests. For many days and nights they
wandered in the forest but could not find the desired skull. But, at last, they find the skull. Kagwa
rushed towards the skull and asked the same question to him How did you come to there? But to
the astonishment of Kagwa the skull kept silent and spoke nothing. This made the huntsman
astonished and worried. Hence, he requested the skull to speak again and again, but the skull did not
utter a single word.
Stanza 5:
Explanation:
When the skull did not utter a single word after constant request of Kagwa, the guards got
ready to execute the orders of the king. They asked Kagwa to bend down and killed him with their
sword and spear. But, as soon as, Kagwa died the skull started speaking. It asked Kagwa, How did
you come here. Now after being killed Kagwa came to know the reality of these words spoken by
the skull in their first meeting. Kagwa, now, answered, it was talking that brought him here.
19
8- One Art
By
Elizabeth Bishop
Stanza 1:
Reference:
These lines have been taken from the poem One Art written by Elizabeth Bishop.
Context:
In this poem the poet gives us a lesson of contentment and patience, which is very essential
for human life. In her views, the modern world is full of sorrows and miseries. As a result man is
living a sorrowful life. In order to live a happy life, he has to become expert in the art of losing.
Explanation:
In these lines the poetess gives us an important message that is directly related with human
life. The message is that a man should not feel sorry or sad over losses of some ordinary things.
Things come and go but the most important thing is human life. The loss of common things does not
bring disaster in human life. To make life happy we should endure their loss and it is not hard to
learn the art of losing.
Stanza 2:
Explanation:
In these lines the poetess gives us an important message that is directly related with human
life. The message is that a man should not feel sorry or sad over losses of some ordinary things. She
says that one should have the courage to bear the loss of door keys or a badly spent hour. Their loss
20
causes problem for a moment not for whole life. She says to master in the art of losing lose
something everyday and it is not hard to master in the art of losing.
Stanza 3:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet suggests us the way to become expert in the field of losing. She says
that in order to become master in this field try to lose more and quickly. This will make you able to
bear the loss of anything. Sometimes, we forget the names of some persons or names of some places
we have visited. But, it is a fact that forgetting of these things does not bring any disaster in life.
Hence, the art of losing make us bear the loss of all these things with courage.
Stanza 4:
Explanation:
In these lines, with the help of some examples, the poet tries to tell us that it is not difficult to
be master in the art of losing. She tells us that once she lost her mothers watch. Then, she had three
beautiful houses which were very dear to her. I lost them also. But the life went on and on. It did not
bring any kind of disaster in her life. Hence, if we try it is not hard to become expert in the field of
losing and this will make our life easy.
Stanza 5:
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, with the help of some examples, the poet tries to tell us that it is not difficult to
be master in the art of losing. She says that even the loss of some big things does not bring any kind
of disaster in life. She gives the example of losing her two beautiful cities. Then she says that she
lost some things bigger than that. She lost a realm which was her. Then she lost two rivers and even
a continent. But, the loss of even these things did not bring any kind of disaster in her life. Life goes
on and on.
Stanza 6:
21
Explanation:
In these lines, with the help of some examples, the poet tries to tell us that it is not difficult to
be master in the art of losing. She addresses to her friend and she says that she likes her joking voice
and his gesture. But she is not going to tell a lie. She will even bear his loss also. Actually, with this
example she tries to tell us that though it is hard to bear the loss of some near and dear one. But it is
also a fact that we have to bear this disaster also. It is not hard to master in the art of losing.
William Wordsworth
Stanza 1:
Behold---
, Yon---a%, Highland---8, Lass--- = 8 =b, Reap--- (T
Reference:
These lines have been taken from the poem The Solitary Reaper written by William
Wordsworth.
Context:
Words worth is called the poet of nature. He finds a joy in every object of nature. In this
poem, he describes a very pleasant incident of seeing a beautiful girl, while his visit to Scotland. It
gave him unlimited joy. Actually, the girl of this poem is a part of nature and so she becomes a
source of joy for him.
Explanation:
22
In these lines, the poet tells us about a beautiful girl. She is singing a sweet song, while
working in corn field. He asks the passer-bys to look at that beautiful young girl. She is working
alone in the fields and is singing a song. He asks them to stop for a while or pass by gently without
disturbing her. Actually, the song of that girl was so enchanting that the poet does not anyone to
disturb her.
Stanza 2:
2:
Alone she cuts and binds the grain,
And sings a melancholy strain;
O listen; for the Vale profound
Is overwhelming with the sound.
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet tells us something more about the working of girl and her song. He
says that the girl was working alone in the field. She was alone cutting and binding the grain. But,
during her work she was singing a sad song. The sound of her song filled the whole valley. It
appeared as if the sound was overflowing the valley.
Stanza 3:
No nightingale
nightingale did ever chaunt
More welcome notes to weary bands
Of travell
travellers in some shady haunt
Among Arabian sands;
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet declared the voice of the girl sweeter than even the voice of a
nightingale. He says that the even no nightingale would have sung so sweetly to welcome a weary
travels in Arabian sands as sweetly the girl was singing. Actually, the mentioning of Arabian deserts
gives a romantic touch to these lines.
Stanza 4:
A voice so thrilling
thrilling nevr was heard
In spring
springtime from the CuckooCuckoo-bird,
Breaking the silence of the seas
Among the farthest Hebrides.
23
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet compares the singing of the girl with the singing of a cuckoo. He says
that the cuckoos singing in spring disturbs pleasantly the silence of far-off islands like Hebrides.
But, he opines that the voice of girl is more thrilling and enchanting even than the voice of cuckoo
bird. In short, the poet wants to say that the girl was singing in a beautifully than the singing birds
like cuckoo and nightingale.
Stanza 5:
Explanation:
Actually, Wordsworth listen the song of a girl while he was on his visit to Scotland. She was
singing in her native language. Hence, he could not understand what the theme of song is. There was
no one to tell him about the song. So, he himself tried to suppose about its theme. He felt that the
girl was singing sadly. So, her song might be about some tragedies or unhappy incidents or battles of
past. In short, though the poet was not able to understand the real theme of the song, yet he was
mesmerized by the voice of the girl.
Stanza 6:
Meanings
Meanings of difficult words:
Humble---)U, Lay---[c.
Explanation:
Actually, Wordsworth listen the song of a girl while he was on his visit to Scotland. She was
singing in her native language. Hence, he could not understand what the theme of song is. There was
no one to tell him about the song. So, he himself tried to suppose about its theme. He thought that
her song might about some ordinary matters of everyday life. It might about some common sorrows,
losses or sufferings that she has suffered and that might come again. In short, though the poet was
not able to understand the real theme of the song, yet he was mesmerized by the voice of the girl.
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Stanza 7:
Explanation:
Actually, Wordsworth listen the song of a girl while he was on his visit to Scotland. She was
singing in her native language. Hence, he could not understand what the theme of song is. There was
no one to tell him about the song. Though, he could not understand the theme of the song, yet the
voice of the girl was so enchanting that he thinks that as if there was no end of the song. He felt that
the girl would remain singing forever and her song would have no end. Then, he observed her
cutting the grain and bending over her sickle. It was her working and singing in natural surroundings
that pleased the poet more.
Stanza 8:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet says that he was spell bound by the song of the girl. He remained
standing there motionless and still. He listened to the song for a long time. Then he walked up the
hill and left the place. He could hear her voice no more. But, the happy memories of that beautiful
song are still fresh in his mind, despite the lapse of so much time. The recollection of these happy
moments always fills his heart with joy.
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William Shakespeare
Stanza No1:
Reference:
These lines have been taken from the poem All the Worlds a Stage written by William
Shakespeare
Shakespeare.
Context:
In this poem, Shakespeare declares this world a stage and he considers human beings actors.
He has divided human life into seven stages. All the stages have been described with mastery hand.
Explanation:
These are starting lines of the poem. Here, in these lines the poet declares this world a stage.
He asks human beings actors. He says that we come in this world as actors have entries on the stage.
Each of us plays his given part and leaves the world as an actor leaves the stage. According to poet,
a man has to play different roles in his life. They can be divided into seven ages. In short, these are
beginning lines of the poem which set a stage for the seven stages of life.
Stanza 2:
26
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet describes first stage of human life. He says that first stage of human
life is that of an infant. He gives a picture of a newly born baby who is in the arms of his nurse. The
baby cries weakly and opens his mouth to have something to eat. This is the stage of life where a
person is quite helpless. The second stage of a mans life is as a school boy. In the morning, with
fresh shining face and having his bag of books on his shoulder, he does not like to go to school. He
walks slowly like a snail.
Stanza 3:
Explanation:
In these lines, third stage of a mans life is described and this is youth. Every man has great
passion of love in his youth. He loves to remain close and win his beloved. He sighs for her and
sound of his sighing resemble with that of the sound that a furnace produces. He likes to remain sad
and even writes some sad verses in praise of her beloveds eyebrows. The feelings of a young man
for his beloved are very naturally described by the poet.
Stanza 4:
Then a soldier,
Full of strange oaths, and beard like a pard,
Jealous in honour, sudden
sudden and quick in quarrel,
Seeking the bubble reputation
Even in the cannons mouth.
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet describes fourth stage a mans life. He says that as young and
energetic person, a man likes to show his strength. Hence, he becomes a soldier. As a soldier, he
promises to protect his country. He grows a beard like that of a leopard and adopts serious looks.
He is very anxious and careful to protect and maintain his honour. He wants to become famous.
Though, this reputation is short lived, yet he is even ready to sacrifice his life for the sake of it. He is
even ready to go in the mouths of cannons for getting it.
Stanza 5:
27
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet describes fifth stage of a mans life. Here, the poet says that in the
mature age of his life, a person likes to be on some respectable position like that of a judge. When he
becomes a judge, he like to live a comfortable life and eat rich food. He has a fat belly full of special
cocks. He has serious and harsh looks. Now, he keeps a beard of a formal cut. He knows a lot of
wise sayings and can advise with examples.
Stanza 6:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet sixth stage of a mans life. He says that when he becomes old he
becomes weak and thin. He wears slippers and tight trousers and looks awkward. He wears his
spectacles on his nose and keeps a bag with him to keep his things of daily use. He cannot wear his
well saved youthful stockings perhaps that have become loose for his legs. He is in weak condition
as his legs are thin and without energy. He cannot go out; hence, he remains at home. His voice
becomes sharp and he whistles as he speaks.
Stanza 7:
28
Oblivion---= 4, sans teeth, sans eyes, sans taste sans everything--- & )#
( ZV (
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet describes the last stage of a mans life. This is the age of extreme old
age. This is last scene of drama of life. Eventful life of a man comes to an end. Now he becomes a
child for the second time. He is deprived of all the pleasures of life. He loses everything in this age.
His teeth have fallen, his eye sight has gone and he cannot taste things. In short, this is the most
tragic stage of human life.
T.S. Elliot
Stanza 1:
Reference:
These lines have been taken from the poem Departure and Arrival written by T.S. Elliot
Elliot.
Context:
This poem was written at the departure of 19th century and arrival of 20th century. Elliot is
very optimist about the future. He gives us a message of hope and happiness in the poem. He advises
us to struggle continuously for the betterment of humanity and society. He says that only in this way
we can give a better future to our coming generations.
Explanation:
These are starting lines of the poem. In these lines, the poet compares human life with that of
see journey. He says that standing on the shore of the world a man does not know about the dangers
29
he will have to face in his future. He has no map or plane. There is no lighthouse to warn him of
the rocks that might hit his ship. But, the poet advises us not to care about the dangers that will come
in the life. He asks us to forget all the worries and dangers and march forward courageously.
Stanza 2:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet says that the path of life is full of twists and turns. There are many
fears and worries. This path of life is full of thorny bushes. But, a hope full young man also sees
roses and flowers with these thorns. He advises us to look at the future with hope. Definitely, we
shall success if we move ahead courageously.
Stanza 3:
Explanation:
This poem was written at the departure of 19th century and arrival of 20th century. In these
lines the poet tells us that the coming time demands some more efforts on our part. He hopes that
this century will have more facilities and comforts than any other century. He is optimistic about the
future. He says that human beings can make full use of available and hidden resources to over come
the pains and miseries. This century will produce greater heroes than the heroes of old time.
Stanza 4:
30
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet tells us how we can make our century great. He says that we are sons
of this century and only we can make this century great. We should try our hard to mould the fate of
this century. We should make it better than the previous ones. We should make this century gain a
proud estate. By doing so, we shall set a good example for the coming centuries and coming people.
Stanza 5:
A legacy of benefits
benefitsmay we
In future for the good until they die,
And ask no other question than to know
That they have helped the cause to victory,
That with their aid the flag is raised on high.
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet asks us to do such good deeds that last forever. He asks us to leave
good legacy for the coming generations that can benefit them for a long time. He wants us to work
for the betterment and glory of the humanity so that the coming generations remember us as hard
workers. Then in their turn, they will also work for the benefits of humanity and leave behind sweet
memories.
Stanza 6:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet says that when we will grow old, we will remember the struggles we
have done for the betterment of human life. We shall desire to visit the places where we worked hard
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and long. The people of coming generation will never forget our good deeds. In this way, this
world will become a happy place to live.
William Blake
Stanza 1:
Wrath---hTb, foe---7[=.
Reference:
These lines have been taken from the poem A poison tree written by William Blake.
Context:
In this poem, the poet tells us about the nourishment of hatred and its consequences. He wants
to teach us that we should express our anger before it turns into hatred. If we will not disclose our
anger it will grow in our hearts like a tree. This tree will bear poisonous fruit that will kill everyone
who will eat it.
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet says that once he got angry with his friend. He expressed his anger to
his friend and his anger ended. But, once he got angry with his enemy. He did not tell it to his enemy
about it his anger. The misunderstanding grew stronger and stronger between him and his enemy.
This resulted into a bitter enmity. Actually, through these lines the poet wants to tell us that we
should love every one and should not have concealed hatred for any one.
Stanza 2:
32
Explanation:
The poet once got angry with his friend. But, he did not disclose his anger. He says that his
anger grew more and more. He had fears of fighting with his enemy that promoted his enmity. He
passed his time in tears and pain. Whenever, he met his enemy he smiled but this smile was deceitful
and was only outwardly. He remained friendly with his enemy just to befool him. In short, in these
lines the poet tells us that when anger is not expressed it develop into minds and hearts in all
possible ways.
Stanza 3:
Explanation:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet describes the fast growth of feelings for his enemy inside him. He
resembles his hatred with an apple tree. He says that at last a bright apple grows on that tree of
hatred. Although, his enemy knew that it was his apple yet the brightness of apple tempted his
enemy to get it. Actually, in these lines, the poet refers to the scene of temptation in paradise.
Stanza 4:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet says that the bright apple of his hatred tempted his enemy and he
secretly went into his garden. Darkness had covered the whole world. He stole that apple and ate it.
His enemy was not aware that it was poisonous. Hence, when the poet entered his garden in the
morning, he was glade to see that his enemy was dead. In short, it can be said that poets concealed
hatred killed his enemy.
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Emily Dickinson
Stanza 1:
Reference:
These lines have been taken form the poem Because I Could Not Stop for Death written by
Emily Dickinson.
Context:
In this poem, the poetess has dealt with the death in a different manner. He considers death
his friend, which takes us away from this temporary world to an unknown world that is immortal,
kind and peaceful. In short, this poem describes death from spiritual point of view.
Explanation:
These are beginning lines of the poem, which are very dramatic and surprising. Here, the
poetess says that death is so considerate that it stops for human beings though they have no time for
it. Man is so much busy in his worldly pursuits that he has forgotten fundamental realities of life, of
which death is one. She says that death was driving a carriage and it invited her to sit on. She
accepted its invitation as it was taking her towards immortality.
Stanza 2:
We slowly drove
droveHe knew no haste
And I had put away
My labour and my leisure too,
For his Civility.
Reference to the Context:
Context:
Same as above.
Explanation:
34
In these lines, the poetess says that the though man is in hurry but the death was not in
haste. It was driving the carriage very slowly. It was so well behaved and kind that she left all her
works and worldly activities to go with it. Actually, the poetess realized the importance of the
journey, hence, left all her labour and leisure.
Stanza 3:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poetess describes that as the carriage driven by death moved ahead it took
her through different stages of life. It can also be said that when death takes us away we remember
all our stages of life. The first stage through which she passed was her school going age. Here, the
children were enjoying recess. Then they passed by the fields of ripened fields. She felt as if the
grain was constantly looking towards them. Actually, this denotes the prime time of her age, youth.
As the day progressed, coming towards an end, they witnessed the setting sun, a symbol of old age.
Stanza 4:
Or ratherrather- He passed Us
Us
The Dews drew quivering and chill
chill
For only Gossamer, my Gown
Gown
My Tippet
Tippet
etonly Tulle
Tulle
Explanation:
While, passing with death through different stages of life, the poetess describes last scene of
life. She says at last the sun of life disappeared. They reached the last stage of life. With the coming
of darkness the dew drops started falling and it became cold. She started trembling. She felt that her
gown and her shoulder coverings were not thick enough to protect her from that cold. Actually,
through these lines the poetess wants to say that in old age man thinks about his bad deeds that he
committed in his life, which disturbs him.
Stanza 5:
35
Cornice---TV 4> ( E.
Explanation:
In these lines, the poetess describes the last stage of her journey with death. She says that
after all the carriage stopped at a house that seemed a swelling of the ground. As it was grave its roof
could not be seen. Only raised part of cornice of the grave could be seen. Here, in these lines,
actually the poetess describes her final resting place grave.
Stanza 6:
Since then
thentis Centuries
Centuriesand yet
Feels shorter than the day
I first surmised the Horses heads
Were towards EternityEternity-
Explanation:
In these lines, the poetess describes the situation after dearth while lying in her grave. She
says that it was her final destination and an entrance towards eternity. As she entered spiritual life,
she realized it was more charming having no end. Here centuries seemed a day. At that moment, she
comprehend that the horses pulled the carriage from physical to spiritual world, from time to
timeless and from mortality to immortality.
14: Light
Light Out
By
Edward Thomas
Stanza 1:
36
Reference:
These lines have been taken from the poem Light out written by Edward Thomas.
Context:
In this poem, the poet deals with sleep as a great blessing of nature. He says that sleep takes
man away from his tiresome activities. The poet has beautifully described his ideas. In fact, the poet
has tried to compare sleep with death. It takes man to a land of permanent peace.
Explanation:
These are starting lines of the poem. Here in these lines, the poet describes the theme of the
poem. He says that lust of wealth and material has overpowered man. But, even then after a long
busy day, we come to a stage when one desires to have some rest. This is advent of sleep. According
to him, sleep is a vast thick forest which is immeasurable. We lose our way in this forest. We cannot
make choice except to be driven by the wave of forest.
Stanza 2:
Brink---pppppp(, blur--- A ! .
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet says that though life is full of hardships and tiresome struggles, yet
the sleep is there to dominate all. It leads man to a peaceful valley, where there are many paths. Man
walks on these paths till dawn. After the whole days work, man has to succumb to sleep willingly or
unwillingly. It deceives man and slowly overcomes man and takes him into the world of peace.
Stanza 3:
37
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet describes experience of sleep. According to him, sleep is so
enchanting that all our disappointments, feelings of love, wishes, pleasure and pains vanish in
dreams. For him sleep is very tempting. He says that during day time man remains busy in different
types of works but when he enters in the valley of sleep all his works comes to end. Sleep is sweeter
than all his worldly works.
Stanza 4:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet describes experience of sleep. When man is overshadowed by sleep
neither any book nor any image of a near or dear one can stop him from entering this land of peace
and pleasure. When man comes to this world, he has to enter this unknown world. He has to leave
behind everything to enter the world of sleep. Here, actually the poet has compared sleep with that
of death. He wants to say that when death comes man has to leave everything and nothing can stop
him.
Stanza 5:
Explanation:
Here in these lines, the poet compares sleep with physical forest. A forest has huge trees like
towers with unaccountable leaves. These trees are covered with layers of layers of leaves one upon
another. In the same way, the sleep overcome man layer over layer. When sleep overcomes man,
silence prevails over him. Man has to yield every command of sleep. When a man enters a thick
38
forest he loses his way. In the same way, when man enters into sleep he loses his way and remains
wandering in this forest of sleep till morning.
Robert Frost
Stanza 1:
Barrel---7,4 (8
/.
Reference:
These lines have been taken form the poem After apple picking
picking written by Robert Frost.
Context:
In this poem, the poet compares the process of apple picking with the tiring work of this
world. Perhaps, we all are busy in our works and are trying hard to survive in this world. But, even
then we have to accept the inevitable death. We have no alternative but to leave everything aside for
this reality.
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet introduces himself as an apple picker. He has been working in his
apple orchard for a long time. He is filling barrels after barrels. He has picked a lot of apple but
many are still to be picked. But now he is feeling tired and wants to have some rest. Actually, the
poet wants to say that when man becomes tired then he wants to take some rest, leaving behind all
his works.
Stanza
Stanza 2:
39
Essence---) 8 /
%) 5(>=*, drowsing off---
, pane---(
( ( =, skim-- pppppp, trough---7,4 (
( ( , hoary---( H %.
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet gives a pictorial description of the garden where he is working. He
says that smell of apples creates such an effect on him that he starts dozing. Although, he has not
completed his work, yet he cannot escape from the captivating smell of apples. There was a long
open box of drinking water for animals in the garden. The water in it had a frozen ice. The poet
removed a sheet of ice from it in the morning and held it before him. Through this sheet of ice he
looked at the white snow covered grass. The poet was sleepy as the sheet of ice was falling form his
hands.
Stanza 3:
Magnified--- 4 ) %, blossom end--- J/
TV (J*, fleck--
>, russet---H 4 %, instep---TV ( ( , sway---/
, cellar--- = *
( ! ([, bin---%, rumbling sound---1 ( (
/ ) (5(
Explanation:
Here in these lines, the poet describes his dreams while he is half sleep. The apples appear
before him in large size and disappear. The trees, from the roots up to the branches giving flowers of
the fruit, appear. The reddish brown colour of apples becomes clearly visible to the poet. Still
standing on the ladder, his instep is keeping the ladder in balancing. But the branches of the tree
40
have started shaking. The dream of the poet continues and he hears the rolling sound of apples
stored in the cellar, as their huge loads arrive.
Stanza 4:
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet explains that he has tired from apple picking. Still, there are thousands
of apples on the trees and he wants to pluck all these apples with his own hands. He knows that all
those apples that fell down and hit the ground, will surely become useless for storage. These spoiled
apples will then be crushed for juice in the machine.
Stanza 5:
Explanation:
These are ending lines of the poem. The poet says that who wants to sleep is well aware what
will disturb his sleep. Apart forms that, he wants to know what kind of sleep he is having. He says
woodchuck could tell it easily about it. But that animal has gone. Now poet does not say surely
whether his sleep will be like that of woodchuck or just a normal sleep for a few hours. He cannot
also say whether it will be ordinary human sleep or the sleep of death. Here, in these lines the poet
41
ends his poem with these thoughts that all our activities ends in sleep. Death is also an sleep that
ends our tiresome journey of life.