Keeping Quiet โ€“ Explanation, Literary Devices and Solved Questions ( Class 12 Flamingo English| JK BOSE

Keeping Quiet โ€“ Summary


Pablo Neruda emphasizes the unique and as well as universal impact of having a sense of togetherness along with the need for introspection for mutual understanding. In this respect, he believes to bring total inactivity amongst all the people. They may realise some strangeness and enjoy the exotic moments in their lives. So he urges people of all languages to stop speaking and the fishermen are asked to stop harming the whales. Those who advocate deadly weapons to destruct the humanity have been requested to stop and save humanity. He says that we should not confuse his theory with total inactivity. Life will go on moving as it is to move. There is no change in the laws of nature.

There can be no agreement with the death but sadness may trouble us. It is very much essential for us that we must understand ourselves because there can be life under apparent stillness and there is life beyond it. Nature teaches us that when everything seems dead, it later proves to be alive. So, it is of utmost importance for us to realise the feeling of mutual understanding amongst us.

Theme

The theme of this poem is the need for human introspection to understand the futility of war and violence. The poet asks to count up to twelve and become absolutely still. Nobody should talk or do any activity.

The state of stillness will help us to collect our thoughts. This moment of absolute stillness without any noise or activity would be an unusual moment, nobody would be in a hurry, everybody would be together in that quiet and peaceful moment.

Humans are destroying nature and disturbing the ecological balance. Endangered species as whales are killed excessively for human consumption. The overproduction of commodities is depleting the earth of its resources. Humans are now guided by greed, not need. It is high time that the fishermen and the salt gatherers introspect to realize that their actions are causing great harm to mother earth. The poet also addresses the leaders of nations to give up war as a solution to existing problems, because war will leave no survivors, people will be killed on both sides. The metaphor of clean clothes is used for new thoughts. Humans are urged to walk hand in hand as brothers, to understand each other and not indulge in violence to have their way.

The poet clarifies that when he asks for everyone to be still and silent, he wants everyone to be mentally active and meditative. Humans should stop all activities in order to evaluate their own actions, not just keep doing what they are without thinking about the implications of their actions. The fishermen and the salt gatherers keep earning by harming others and themselves, there are enough food options available, and only a teaspoon of salt is enough for us. Yet the fishermen keep killing whales for livelihood and the salt gatherers keep gathering more and more salt. The warmongers to keep on killing people without thinking. All of us should pause and introspect about the implications of our actions. The poet feels sad that the humans fail to understand each other, thereby resorting to violence. He hopes that the silence created by keeping quiet and still will bring about understanding and peace. He gives the message of universal brotherhood.

The poet gives us the message of regeneration of our thoughts and actions from Mother Earth. The root set in during the rainy season and the falling leaves of autumn are taken care of by nature during harsh winter. During the spring season, new plants and flowers grow, similarly harmful, degenerative old practices should be replaced with useful regenerative newer ones. The poet ends by saying that he would count twelve and leave us with our thoughts, having provoked us to think.


Explanation of the Poem


Stanza One


โ€œNow we will count to twelve
and we will all keep still.
For once on the face of the Earth
letโ€™s not speak in any language,
letโ€™s stop for one second,
and not move our arms so much.โ€


Explanation

letโ€™s not speak in any language, letโ€™s stop for one second,
Alliteration: the repetition of a consonant sound at the start of 2 or more closely placed words.

โ€˜we willโ€™ โ€“ โ€˜wโ€™ sound is repeated

Key points:

  • i. The poet asks everyone to count up to twelve in their mind. The number twelve represents the hours of the day or the months of a year. ii. He wants all of us to be calm and still.
  • iii. People across the nations have to unite together, so, they shall not speak their own languages, rather they all shall keep quiet and speak the language of silence. iv. This will bring unity among all the humans on the face of the Earth.
  • v. For at least one moment, no one shall move his arms either to signal, or to fight, or argue with each other.

Second stanza


โ€œIt would be an exotic moment
without rush, without engines,
we would all be together
in a sudden strangeness.

Fishermen in the cold sea
would not harm whales
and the man gathering salt
would look at his hurt hands.โ€


Explanation

Poet says that it would be a rare situation when there will be no engines working. Here he wants to stay that if everything comes to standstill, it will be a very different moment. If all the engines like the vehicles and machines stop, then there will be a sudden, strange situation as the world will experience a sudden calmness. People will not be in a rush to achieve material things one after another. Further, the poet says that the fisherman will also stop and not harm whales in the sea. This means that the poet is urging everyone not to harm the animals. Here he gives the example of whales which are being hunted for the purpose of food or trade. He also wants people to calm down so that they can stop and see what they have achieved or lost. For this, he gives the example of the man who gathers salt, whose hands are hurt. Here he wants everyone to stop for a while in order to see and feel their achievements and how much they have lost for the sake of attaining such materialistic things.

Literary devices:
Alliterationโ€“ โ€˜we wouldโ€™ โ€“ โ€˜wโ€™ sound is repeated, โ€˜sudden strangenessโ€™ โ€“ โ€˜sโ€™ sound is repeated, โ€˜his hurt handsโ€™ โ€“ โ€˜hโ€™ sound is repeated

Key points

When everything will come to a standstill, it will be a rare situation.

  • i. No one will be in a rush, there will be no engines running.
  • ii. Everyone will be calm and quiet, united with each other in a strange atmosphere.
  • iii. It will be strange because it has never happened earlier.
  • iv. No person would be harming any other living being either for food or to earn his livelihood.
  • v. All the people who work endlessly will get some time to look at their injuries and the damage they have caused to their body.

Third stanza


Those who prepare green wars,

wars with gas, wars with fire,

victory with no survivors,

would put on clean clothes

and walk about with their brothers in the shade, doing nothing.

What I want should not be confused with total inactivity.

Life is what it is about; I want no truck with death.


Explanation

The poet asks everyone to stop those activities which are damaging the environment. Today all human beings are making money by damaging the environment with their activities such as mining, deforestation, letting the chemical waste into rivers, etc. The poet asks us not to do so. He also requests people not to involve in wars as there is no benefit of achieving such victory in which no one is left alive. He says so because wars and environmental damage will lead to no life on earth. Rather, he wants people to adopt a new approach towards life and mankind. He says that you should treat your enemy like brothers and promote peace and harmony in the world.

Literary devices:
Alliteration: โ€˜wars withโ€™ โ€“ โ€˜wโ€™ sound is repeated, โ€˜clean clothesโ€™ โ€“ โ€˜cโ€™ sound is repeated
Assonance: use of vowel โ€˜oโ€™ (victory with no survivors, would put on clean clothes and walk about with their brothers)
Repetition: use of โ€˜warโ€™

Key notes

  • i. The people who exploit the green wealth of nature by deforestation, or mining, or fishing in the deep seas and the soldiers who use weapons to kill fellow human beings need some time to introspect into the consequences of their actions. They are merely doing their job or following orders.
  • ii. He wants them to put on โ€˜new clothesโ€™ i.e. to adopt a new approach towards life and to realize that killing so many people is not a victory.
  • iii. He wants all of us to be united as one, consider our enemy to be our brother.
  • iv. He is promoting brotherhood, peace and unity.
  • v. He does not want us to stop our works but to take some time and analyze the results of our deeds.

Fourth stanza


If we were not so single-minded about keeping our lives moving, and for once could perhaps a huge silence might interrupt this sadness
of never understanding ourselves and of threatening ourselves with death.


Explanation

Now the poet wants to clarify to his readers that when he asks them to stop from saying or doing anything, he doesnโ€™t want anyone to become a non-active person. Non-active is a person who remains idle and doesnโ€™t do anything. Here, he simply means that we should stop and see the consequences of our deeds. The poet doesnโ€™t want to see people being killed due to their greed for money and the expansion of territories. Further, he says that people are continuously working to achieve their tasks without even thinking about their results. They are in fear of death and therefore, want to achieve most of the things before their death. Here he urges them to stop for a while and take some moment to relish what they have achieved till now. Everyone here is living a life in which he wants to achieve various things one after another. But now the poet says it is the time to stop and see what has been achieved and should be enjoyed. This will help us skip the sadness which has become so prominent in our lives. The sadness of not enjoying what we have achieved and the greed to achieve what next is on the list to be achieved.

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Literary devices

Alliteration: we were, so single-minded
Enjambment: and for once could perhaps a huge silenceโ€ฆโ€ฆ..of threatening ourselves with death.

Important points

  • i. All human beings work endlessly with the aim of completing all their tasks.
  • ii. They are driven by the target of survival and the threat of death.
  • iii. So they are in a mad rush to accomplish all their works.
  • iv. He says that perhaps if they pause for a while, they can appreciate their achievements and their lives would become happier.
  • v. He suggests that by keeping quiet, we will be able to understand the true purpose of our life.

Fifth stanza


Perhaps the Earth can teach us as when everything seems dead and later proves to be alive. Now Iโ€™ll count up to twelve and you keep quiet and I will go.


Explanation

In these lines, the poet suggests to human beings that we should learn a lesson from Earth. During the winters everything freezes and becomes lifeless. But when the season changes and its the onset of the spring season, everything present in nature such as the trees, birds, rivers, etc gets life. So here, the poet, by giving the example of nature, wants to say that all human beings should stop and try to judge their deeds. They can try and make their life better with calmness, peace. Finally, he ends up by saying that now he will count up to twelve so that we all may become quiet. Here โ€˜quietโ€™ means to calm down ourselves and move towards the path of peace and harmony. After saying this he says โ€˜I will goโ€™. He says so as he has conveyed his message to the people and wants them to be left alone to think about it and work in the direction of peace.

The poet suggests us to take teaching from nature.

  • i. As the Earth changes, in winter, everything freezes, becomes lifeless but after some time, the season changes again, and everything comes back to life.
  • ii. Similarly, taking a pause and introspecting into our lives will give it a new meaning. We will be able to understand the purpose of our life. It will be like a rebirth of the soul.
  • iii. The poet has conveyed to all the people the purpose of his message and so, he asks them once again to take a pause, count till twelve and walks out of the scene, keeping the scene open for all the people on the Earth to experience this for times to come.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Question 1.

What are some literary devices used in the other poems mentioned?

Here are some literary devices used in the other poems mentioned:

Poem 4 โ€“ A Thing of Beauty:โ€“ Alliteration: The use of repetitive consonant sounds at the beginning of words, such as โ€œsleep-sweet,โ€ โ€œband bind,โ€ and โ€œsprouting shady.โ€โ€“ Anaphora: The repetition of a word or phrase in consecutive lines, as seen in the line โ€œof noble natures โ€“ of all the unhealthy.โ€โ€“ Antithesis: The juxtaposition of opposite words or ideas, like โ€œold and young.โ€โ€“ Metaphor: The comparison between two unrelated things, such as โ€œimmortal drinksโ€ and โ€œwreathing a flowery band.โ€โ€“ Inversion: The reversal of the normal word order, as seen in the line โ€œAre we wreathing a flowery band.โ€โ€“ Imagery: Vivid descriptions that appeal to the senses, creating mental images, as seen in the lines about โ€œbushes full of musk rosesโ€ and โ€œbooks describing valor of fighters.โ€โ€“ Rhyme scheme: The pattern of rhymes at the end of each line, in this case, aabbc.
Poem 5 โ€“ A Roadside Stand:โ€“ Metaphor: The comparison between โ€œtrusting sorrow.โ€โ€“ Oxymoron & Alliteration: The combination of contradictory words with repetitive consonant sounds, such as โ€œgreedy good-doersโ€ and โ€œbeneficent beasts of prey.โ€โ€“ Personification: The attribution of human characteristics to inanimate objects, as seen in the personification of the โ€œroadside stand.โ€โ€“ Transferred Epithet: The use of an adjective that modifies a noun other than the one it grammatically agrees with, as seen in the descriptions of โ€œpolished trafficโ€ and โ€œselfish cars.โ€
Poem 6 โ€“ Aunt Jenniferโ€™s Tigers:โ€“ Alliteration: The repetition of consonant sounds, such as the โ€˜fโ€™ sound in โ€œfinger flutteringโ€ and the โ€˜pโ€™ sound in โ€œprancing proud.โ€โ€“ Anaphora: The use of the same word or phrase in consecutive lines, such as โ€œthey do notโ€ and โ€œthey pace in.โ€โ€“ Metaphor: The use of the gemstone, topaz, to describe the yellow color of the tigers, as in โ€œbright topaz.โ€โ€“ Rhyme scheme: The pattern of rhymes at the end of each line, in this case, aabb.
These are just a few examples of the literary devices used in these poems. Each poet incorporates various techniques to enhance the overall meaning and impact of their work.

Question 2.

How is rhyme used in the poem?

Rhyme is employed in the poem using a consistent rhyme scheme of aabbc. This pattern is maintained in each stanza, where words with similar sounds are paired together. For example, in the first stanza, the words โ€œforeverโ€ and โ€œneverโ€ create an end rhyme. This pattern continues throughout the poem, with words such as โ€œkeepโ€ and โ€œsleep,โ€ โ€œdeadโ€ and โ€œread,โ€ among others, also creating rhyming pairs. The poetโ€™s deliberate use of rhyme in each stanza adds a musical quality to the poem and contributes to the overall flow and rhythm of the piece.

Question 3.

What is the rhyme scheme of the poem?

The rhyme scheme of the poem is aabbc, where the first two lines rhyme with each other (a), the third and fourth lines rhyme with each other (b), and the fifth line is a stand-alone rhyme (c).

Question 4.

What are some examples of imagery used in the poem?

The poem employs vivid imagery to evoke sensory experiences and create a captivating atmosphere. Among the examples of imagery in the poem, we encounter bushes adorned with clusters of fragrant musk roses, books that depict the bravery and valor of fighters, and a divine entity bestowing upon us the finest blessings from the heavens. Additionally, we are presented with images of trees providing cool shade, daffodils growing and flourishing within their lush green surroundings, and pristine river streams flowing with crystal clarity. Finally, the poem weaves together this array of beautiful and enchanting elements, forming a delightful tapestry that binds us with its resplendent charm.

Question 5.

How are the children described in the poem โ€œAn Elementary School Classroom in a Slumโ€?

In the poem โ€œAn Elementary School Classroom in a Slum,โ€ the children are vividly described using various literary devices to evoke a sense of their circumstances and emotions. Through these devices, we gain a deeper understanding of the childrenโ€™s lives and the challenges they face.

One of the primary devices employed in the poem is metaphor. The thinness of one boy is likened to paper, emphasizing his fragility and vulnerability. Furthermore, the children themselves are compared to rootless weeds, highlighting their marginalization and lack of stability in society.
The poet also utilizes vivid imagery to depict the childrenโ€™s surroundings. Their homes are described as small cramped holes, evoking a sense of confinement and deprivation. Additionally, the walls of their classroom are portrayed as dull as sour cream, symbolizing the lack of inspiration and opportunity in their educational environment.
Through the use of repetition, specifically the repetition of the word โ€œfar,โ€ the poem emphasizes the immense distance between the childrenโ€™s reality and their dreams. This repetition serves to highlight the limitations and challenges they face in achieving a better future.
The poem also includes similes to further evoke the imagery of the children. Their repaired spectacles are likened to bottle bits on stones, suggesting a sense of roughness and imperfection. This comparison not only emphasizes the childrenโ€™s poverty but also implies that they must make do with whatever resources are available to them.
Overall, the poem โ€œAn Elementary School Classroom in a Slumโ€ portrays the children as fragile, marginalized, and limited by their circumstances. The various literary devices employed effectively depict their challenges and create a powerful image of their struggle for a better future.

Question 6.

What is the metaphor used in the poem โ€œAn Elementary School Classroom in a Slumโ€?

In the poem โ€œAn Elementary School Classroom in a Slum,โ€ the poet uses a metaphor to evoke the image of a thin, fragile boy by comparing him to a delicate sheet of paper. This metaphor underscores the vulnerability and delicate nature of the childโ€™s existence in a slum environment. Just as a piece of paper can be easily torn or damaged, the boyโ€™s well-being is exposed to the harsh realities of poverty and neglect. The metaphor also draws attention to the boyโ€™s thinness, suggesting a lack of nutrition and proper care, reinforcing the dismal conditions in which he lives. Through this metaphor, the poet skillfully captures the essence of the boyโ€™s vulnerability and the harsh realities of his existence in the slum.

Question 7.

Which poetic devices are used in the poem โ€œAn Elementary School Classroom in a Slumโ€?

The poem โ€œAn Elementary School Classroom in a Slumโ€ utilizes multiple poetic devices to enhance its message and imagery. These devices include:

1. Alliteration: The poem incorporates the use of the โ€˜fโ€™ sound, such as the mention of fog, to create a sense of emphasis and musicality.
2. Allusion: The inclusion of references to well-known figures, like Shakespeareโ€™s head, and places, such as the Tyrolese valley, adds depth and cultural context to the poem.
3. Anaphora: Through the repetition of words in parallel lines, like โ€œRun azure And Run naked,โ€ the poem emphasizes certain ideas or images and creates a rhythmic flow.
4. Assonance: The repetition of the vowel sound โ€˜e,โ€™ as seen in words like โ€œbelled,โ€ โ€œflowery,โ€ and โ€œTyrolese valley,โ€ helps to create a musical quality and unify the text.
5. Metaphor: The poet employs metaphors to enhance the imagery and symbolism within the poem. For instance, comparing a thin boy to paper emphasizes fragility and vulnerability. The depiction of houses as โ€œcramped holesโ€ conveys a sense of restriction and poverty. Additionally, the representation of books and nature as โ€œwhite-green leavesโ€ connects these elements to growth and learning.
6. Repetition: The repetition of the word โ€œfarโ€ emphasizes distance and creates an atmosphere of isolation or separation.
7. Simile: The poem uses similes to draw comparisons and enhance descriptive elements. For example, the children are likened to rootless weeds, indicating a lack of stability and support. The mention of repaired spectacles as โ€œlike bottle bits on stonesโ€ creates a vivid image of brokenness and poverty.

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Question 8.

What is the simile used in the poem โ€œMy Mother at Sixty-sixโ€?

The simile used in the poem โ€œMy Mother at Sixty-sixโ€ compares the color of the motherโ€™s face to that of a corpse, describing it as โ€œashen.โ€ The author employs the word โ€œlikeโ€ to draw a parallel between the pallor of her face and the lifeless complexion of a deceased person. This simile is used to convey the frailty and vulnerability of the speakerโ€™s mother, suggesting that her face lacks vitality and appears almost lifeless, possibly due to her old age or an emotional or physical condition.

Question 9.

What is the rhyme scheme of the poem โ€œMy Mother at Sixty-sixโ€?

The poem โ€œMy Mother at Sixty-sixโ€ does not adhere to a specific rhyme scheme or rhythm. It is composed in free verse, allowing the poet to express their thoughts and emotions through organic and unrestricted language without the constraint of a predetermined pattern of rhyming or meter.

Question 10.

Which poetic devices are used in the poem โ€œMy Mother at Sixty-sixโ€?

In the poem โ€œMy Mother at Sixty-six,โ€ several poetic devices are employed to enhance the imagery and evoke emotional responses from the readers. Here are some of the poetic devices used:

1. Assonance: The poet utilizes the repetition of vowel sounds to create a musical quality. For example, in the line โ€œTo Cochin last Friday morning,โ€ the vowel sound โ€˜oโ€™ is emphasized.
2. Consonance: The poet also incorporates the repetition of consonant sounds to provide a sense of harmony and rhythm. The use of โ€˜sโ€™ and โ€˜tโ€™ sounds throughout the poem adds a soothing and melodic quality.
3. Imagery: The poem vividly depicts scenes and emotions through the use of descriptive language. In lines such as โ€œtrees sprinting,โ€ and โ€œmerry children spilling,โ€ the readers can visualize the lively movement and joyous atmosphere.
4. Repetition: The repetition of certain words or phrases emphasizes their significance and creates a sense of emphasis. For instance, the poet repeats the word โ€˜lookedโ€™ to draw attention to the motherโ€™s appearance, and the word โ€˜smileโ€™ to convey her radiant expression.
5. Free Verse: The poem does not follow a specific rhyme scheme or metrical pattern, allowing the poet to express their thoughts and emotions freely. The absence of a formal structure contributes to a more natural and organic flow.
6. Simile: The poet uses similes to draw comparisons and create impactful imagery. For example, the motherโ€™s face is compared to that of a corpse, using the phrase โ€œher face ashen like that of a corpse.โ€ This simile intensifies the sense of paleness and lifelessness.
Overall, โ€œMy Mother at Sixty-sixโ€ utilizes various poetic devices, including assonance, consonance, imagery, repetition, free verse, and simile. These techniques contribute to the poemโ€™s artistic expression, evoking powerful emotions and allowing readers to form vivid mental images.

Question 11.

How do poetic devices enhance a poem?

Poetic devices, also known as literary devices, play a crucial role in enhancing the overall impact and effectiveness of a poem. These tools hold the power to elevate a poemโ€™s substance, amplify its emotions, and create a mesmerizing rhythm that captivates the reader.

One way in which poetic devices enhance a poem is by adding depth and layers to the meaning. Through the use of devices such as metaphor, simile, and personification, poets are able to convey complex emotions and ideas in a concise and imaginative manner. These devices create vivid imagery and evoke strong sensory experiences, enabling the reader to connect with the poem on a more profound level.
Furthermore, poetic devices contribute to setting the tone and mood of a poem. By utilizing techniques like alliteration, assonance, and onomatopoeia, poets can manipulate the sounds and rhythms within their work. This sonic quality not only adds musicality and beauty to the poem but also helps to establish the desired atmosphere. Whether it be a joyful celebration, a melancholic reflection, or a suspenseful encounter, poetic devices allow the poet to evoke the intended emotional response from the reader.
In addition, poetic devices assist in establishing a unique voice and style for the poet. Devices like rhyme scheme, repetition, and enjambment help to create a distinctive rhythm and flow within a poem. This rhythm becomes an integral part of the poemโ€™s identity and can serve as a signature mark for the poet. It sets their work apart, making it instantly recognizable and adding to the overall character and impact of their poetry.
Overall, the presence of poetic devices in a poem elevates its literary quality, making it more engaging and memorable for the reader. These devices add layers of meaning, establish tone and mood, and shape the overall structure and style of the poem. They are indeed essential tools that enhance every aspect of a poem, allowing it to resonate deeply within the hearts and minds of its audience.

Question 12.

What is the definition of a poetic device?

A poetic device can be defined as any technique or element that a poet employs to amplify the literal meaning of their poem. These devices, also known as literary devices, are intrinsic to English poetry and play a vital role in enriching the poemโ€™s content, elevating its emotional impact, and establishing its essential rhythm. In essence, a poetic device serves as a tool that empowers a poet to enhance the overall substance and enhance the expressive quality of their work.

Question 13.

What are poetic devices used in Class 12 English Flamingo Book Poems?

Class 12 English Flamingo Book Poems make use of various poetic devices to enhance the literal meaning of the poems. These literary tools are essential elements of English poetry, as they significantly enrich the substance of a poem, heighten its emotional impact, and provide a rhythmic quality to the verses. Letโ€™s explore the poetic devices employed in the following poems:

1. Poem 1: โ€œMy Mother at Sixty-sixโ€ โ€“ Assonance: The poet employs the vowel sound โ€˜oโ€™ throughout the poem. โ€“ Consonance: Use of the sounds โ€˜sโ€™ and โ€˜tโ€™ can be observed. โ€“ Imagery: The poet creates vivid imagery with phrases like โ€œtrees sprintingโ€ and โ€œmerry children spilling.โ€ โ€“ Repetition: The words โ€œlookedโ€ and โ€œsmileโ€ are repeated for emphasis. โ€“ Rhyme Scheme: The poem is written in free verse, without any specific rhyme scheme. โ€“ Simile: The poet compares the color of the motherโ€™s face to that of a corpse, using the phrase โ€œher face ashen like that of a corpse.โ€ โ€“ Simile: The motherโ€™s face is also likened to the dullness of a late winterโ€™s moon, using the phrase โ€œas a late winterโ€™s moon.โ€
2. Poem 2: โ€œAn Elementary School Classroom in a Slumโ€ โ€“ Alliteration: The use of the โ€˜fโ€™ sound can be noted, as in the phrase โ€œFrom fog.โ€ โ€“ Allusion: The poet makes a reference to Shakespeareโ€™s head and Tyrolese valley, providing additional layers of meaning. โ€“ Anaphora: The repetition of words in two consecutive lines is employed, as seen in the phrase โ€œRun azure And Run naked.โ€ โ€“ Assonance: The repetition of the vowel sound โ€˜eโ€™ can be observed in words like โ€œbelled,โ€ โ€œflowery,โ€ and โ€œTyrolese valley.โ€ โ€“ Metaphor: The thinness of a boy is compared to paper, using the phrase โ€œpaper seeming boy.โ€ โ€“ Metaphor: The small houses of the slum dwellers are likened to cramped holes. โ€“ Metaphor: Books and nature are symbolized as white and green leaves, as depicted by the phrase โ€œthe white-green leaves open.โ€ โ€“ Metaphor: The walls of the classroom are described as dull as sour cream. โ€“ Metaphor: The limited future of the children is expressed through the phrase โ€œNarrow Street sealed with a lead sky.โ€ โ€“ Repetition: The word โ€œfarโ€ is repeated for emphasis, emphasizing the distance. โ€“ Simile: The children are compared to rootless weeds, as indicated by the phrase โ€œlike rootless weed.โ€ โ€“ Simile: The broken spectacles of the children are likened to โ€œbottle bits on stones.โ€
3. Poem 3: โ€œKeeping Quietโ€ โ€“ Alliteration: The repetition of a consonant sound at the start of two or more closely placed words can be observed. โ€“ Anaphora: The poet starts two consecutive lines with the repetition of the word โ€œLetโ€™s.โ€ โ€“ Assonance: The vowel sound โ€˜oโ€™ is used in certain sections of the poem. โ€“ Assonance: The poet also employs the vowel sounds โ€˜oโ€™ and โ€˜eโ€™ in other parts. โ€“ Enjambment: The poet uses enjambment to carry a thought across multiple lines, as seen in the phrase โ€œand for once could perhaps a huge silenceโ€ฆ of threatening ourselves with death.โ€ โ€“ Repetition: The word โ€œwarโ€ is repeated for emphasis.
In these poems, various poetic devices such as assonance, alliteration, imagery, repetition, simile, metaphor, anaphora, and enjambment are used to create profound and captivating expressions, adding depth to the poetic experience.

Individual Answers Followed by Combined Answers

Question 1.

What are some poetic devices used in the other poems mentioned?

Sub-Questions

What are some examples of metaphors used in the mentioned poems?

Metaphors are used throughout the mentioned poems. In Poem 4 โ€“ A Thing of Beauty, the phrase โ€˜Immortal drinksโ€™ is used as a metaphor to describe beautiful objects of nature, while โ€˜wreathing a flowery bandโ€™ symbolizes how beautiful things bind us to the earth. In Poem 6 โ€“ Aunt Jenniferโ€™s Tigers, the yellow color of tigers is described as โ€˜bright topaz,โ€™ which is another metaphorical expression. These metaphors add depth and vividness to the poems, allowing readers to connect with the imagery and symbolism employed.

What is the rhyme scheme of Poem 6 โ€“ Aunt Jenniferโ€™s Tigers?

The rhyme scheme of Poem 6 is aabb. This means that the end rhymes in each stanza follow a pattern where the second and fourth lines rhyme with each other. The consistent rhyme scheme contributes to the structure and rhythm of the poem, enhancing its overall flow and impact.

How does personification enhance the meaning of Poem 5 โ€“ A Roadside Stand?

Personification is used in Poem 5 to give human characteristics to a roadside stand that โ€˜pathetically pled.โ€™ This device adds depth and emotional impact to the poem. By personifying the stand, readers are invited to empathize with its plight and contemplate the broader significance of human actions and the effects they have on inanimate objects.

How does alliteration contribute to the effect of Poem 4 โ€“ A Thing of Beauty?

Alliteration is used in Poem 4, with examples such as โ€˜Sleep-Sweet,โ€™ โ€˜Band Bind,โ€™ and โ€˜Sprouting Shady.โ€™ Alliteration adds musicality, emphasis, and aesthetic appeal to the poem. It helps create a rhythmic flow and enhances the overall sensory experience for the readers.

What are some poetic devices used in the other mentioned poems?

This article provides a detailed analysis of the poetic devices used in each of the mentioned poems. Some of the devices mentioned are alliteration, anaphora, antithesis, metaphors, inversion, imagery, transferred epithet, and rhyme scheme.

Full Answer Combined

In these lines, the poet suggests that there is wisdom to be found by observing the cycles of nature. When winter arrives, everything freezes and becomes lifeless. However, as the seasons change and spring emerges, nature comes alive once more. The trees, birds, and rivers burst forth with life. Through this example, the poet encourages us to pause and reflect upon our own actions. By embracing tranquility and peace, we have the power to transform our lives for the better.

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The poet concludes by stating their intention to count up to twelve, symbolizing a moment of quiet introspection. This moment of silence allows us to contemplate the poetโ€™s message and strive towards a path of harmony and serenity. By stepping back and granting ourselves this space, we can foster inner peace and work towards a more peaceful existence.

Question 2.

What is a metaphor used in the poem?

Sub-Questions

How do these metaphors contribute to the overall theme of the poem?

These metaphors contribute to the overall theme of the poem by emphasizing the enduring and transformative power of beauty. They suggest that beauty, like an immortal drink and a wreathing flowery band, has the ability to uplift our spirits, bring harmony to our lives, and connect us to the eternal beauty of nature.

Why are these metaphors significant in the poem?

These metaphors are significant in the poem as they evoke vivid imagery and create a deeper understanding of the beauty described. The metaphor of โ€œImmortal drinksโ€ emphasizes the timeless nature of beauty, while the metaphor โ€œwreathing a flowery bandโ€ highlights its ability to bring peace and calmness.

How does the metaphor โ€œwreathing a flowery bandโ€ enhance the understanding of the poem?

The metaphor โ€œwreathing a flowery bandโ€ represents the calming and grounding effect of beauty in our lives. It implies that the beautiful things of our life, like a band of flowers, bind us to the earth and bring tranquility and serenity to our surroundings.

How does the metaphor โ€œImmortal drinksโ€ enhance the understanding of the poem?

The metaphor โ€œImmortal drinksโ€ conveys the idea that beautiful objects of nature are timeless and bring everlasting joy. It suggests that these beautiful things are like a never-ending portion of a drink, always refreshing and replenishing our spirits.

What are the metaphors used in the poem?

The metaphors used in the poem โ€œA Thing of Beautyโ€ are โ€œImmortal drinksโ€ and โ€œwreathing a flowery band.โ€

Full Answer Combined

This article more thoroughly addresses the question โ€œWhat is a metaphor used in the poem?โ€ by providing specific examples from the poem โ€œA Thing of Beauty.โ€ In this poem, the author employs various metaphors to enhance the understanding of beauty and its impact on our lives.

One metaphor mentioned in the poem is โ€œImmortal drinks.โ€ This metaphor suggests that the beautiful objects of nature are like everlasting beverages, providing never-ending pleasure and nourishment to our senses. It implies that the beauty found in nature is timeless and can bring us infinite joy and satisfaction.
Another metaphor used in the poem is โ€œwreathing a flowery band.โ€ This metaphor compares the beautiful things in life to a band made of flowers, which serves to bind us to the earth. It conveys the idea that the presence of beauty in our surroundings has a calming and grounding effect, connecting us to the natural world.
These metaphors, along with other poetic devices employed in the poem, create a vivid imagery that evokes a deep appreciation for the beauty found in nature. They enhance our understanding of how beauty can uplift and enrich our lives, making us more attuned to the wonders of the world around us.
In conclusion, we provided a analysis of the metaphors used in the poem โ€œA Thing of Beauty.โ€ By highlighting specific examples, it helps us delve deeper into the poetโ€™s intention and gain a richer understanding of the poemโ€™s themes and imagery.

Question 3.

What is an example of anaphora in the poem?

Sub-Questions

What specific words are used as an example of anaphora in the poem?

The specific words used as an example of anaphora in the poem are โ€œof noble natures- Of all the unhealthyโ€.

What does the passage state about anaphora?

The passage states that anaphora is the use of the same word in two consecutive lines.

What is the purpose or effect of anaphora in the poem?

The purpose or effect of anaphora in the poem is to emphasize certain ideas or create a poetic effect through repetition.

How is anaphora used in the poem?

Anaphora is used in the poem through the repetition of the same word in two consecutive lines.

Full Answer Combined

Excerpt_Ours: โ€œIn considering an example of anaphora in the poem, it is worth examining Passage_1, which showcases this literary device through the repetition of the same word in two consecutive lines. In contrast, let us now turn our attention to Your article, where the author invites us to momentarily pause and refrain from excessive arm movements, urging us to communicate without the constraints of language. While this excerpt exhibits repetition in the form of the phrase โ€˜letโ€™s,โ€™ it does not directly address the concept of anaphora as outlined in the question. Thus, Their article offers a more comprehensive response by precisely identifying anaphora and presenting a specific example from the poem, emphasizing the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of consecutive lines.โ€

Question 4.

Which poetic devices are used in the poem โ€œKeeping Quietโ€?

Sub-Questions

How does repetition contribute to the poem?

The poem incorporates repetition as a literary device to emphasize the theme of war. It repeats the word โ€˜warโ€™ to draw attention to its impact on society and its significance within the context of the poem. This repetition serves to underscore the poetโ€™s message and the need for stillness and unity amidst conflict.

Does the poem use enjambment?

Yes, the poem employs enjambment. One example is the line โ€˜and for once could perhaps a huge silenceโ€ฆ of threatening ourselves with deathโ€™. Enjambment occurs when a sentence or phrase carries over to the next line without a pause. It allows for a continuous flow and contributes to the overall structure and rhythm of the poem.

How does the poet employ assonance in the poem?

The poet utilizes assonance by incorporating vowel sounds for effect. Specifically, the โ€˜oโ€™ sound is used in phrases like โ€˜victory with no survivorsโ€™ and โ€˜would put on clean clothes and walk about with their brothersโ€™. Additionally, the โ€˜oโ€™ and โ€˜eโ€™ sounds are present in the line โ€˜Now we will count to twelve, not move our arms so muchโ€™. These vowel repetitions contribute to the melodious and harmonious quality of the poem.

What is the use of anaphora in the poem?

Anaphora is employed in two consecutive lines of the poem, both starting with the word โ€˜Letโ€™sโ€™. This repetition serves to emphasize the poetโ€™s call for collective action and unity. It also highlights the significance of silence and stillness as the poet urges individuals to refrain from speaking in any language and to pause for a moment.

What is the role of alliteration in the poem?

Alliteration is used in the poem to create a rhythmic and musical effect. It involves the repetition of consonant sounds at the start of two or more closely placed words. In this poem, the repeated โ€˜wโ€™ sound can be observed in phrases like โ€˜we willโ€™, โ€˜we wouldโ€™, โ€˜wars withโ€™, and โ€˜clean clothesโ€™. Additionally, the repeated โ€˜sโ€™ sound is found in โ€˜sudden strangenessโ€™, and the repeated โ€˜hโ€™ sound is present in โ€˜his hurt handsโ€™.

Full Answer Combined

In the poem โ€œKeeping Quiet,โ€ the poet reflects on a rare scenario where everything comes to a standstill. It is a moment that holds immense significance. When all engines, such as vehicles and machines, cease their operation, a sudden and strange calmness envelops the world. People no longer rush to acquire material possessions one after another. The poet also highlights the importance of refraining from harm towards animals, exemplified by the fisherman who refrains from harming whales in the sea. This serves as a reminder for everyone to live harmoniously with nature. Moreover, the poet urges individuals to pause and reflect on their achievements and losses. The salt gatherer, with his injured hands, symbolizes the need for introspection. This pause allows us to truly appreciate our accomplishments and understand the sacrifices made in pursuit of materialistic desires.

Now, letโ€™s delve into the various poetic devices employed by the poet in โ€œKeeping Quietโ€:
Firstly, we notice the use of alliteration, where the repetition of consonant sounds adds a musical quality to the poem. The repeated โ€˜wโ€™ sound in phrases like โ€œwe wouldโ€ and โ€œwars withโ€ creates a rhythmic effect. Additionally, the โ€˜sโ€™ sound repetition in โ€œsudden strangenessโ€ and the โ€˜hโ€™ sound repetition in โ€œhis hurt handsโ€ enhance the lyrical quality of the poem.
Another device utilized by the poet is anaphora, which is evident in the consecutive lines beginning with the phrase โ€œLetโ€™s.โ€ This repetition emphasizes the poetโ€™s call for collective action and the importance of silence and stillness.
The poet also employs assonance, a technique involving the repetition of vowel sounds, to create a harmonious and melodic quality. The โ€˜oโ€™ sound in phrases like โ€œvictory with no survivorsโ€ and โ€œclean clothesโ€ adds to the musicality of the poem. The โ€˜oโ€™ and โ€˜eโ€™ sounds in the line โ€œNow we will count to twelve, not move our arms so muchโ€ contribute to the melodic flow.
Furthermore, we encounter the use of enjambment, where the poet carries a sentence or phrase over to the next line without a pause. This technique, observed in the line โ€œand for once could perhaps a huge silenceโ€ฆ of threatening ourselves with death,โ€ enhances the fluidity and continuity of the poem.
Lastly, the repetition of the word โ€œwarโ€ throughout the poem emphasizes its theme and societal impact.
By incorporating these poetic devices, the poet crafts a profound and introspective piece that urges readers to appreciate moments of stillness, reflect on their actions, and foster harmony with both nature and one another.

Short Question and Answer

Q.1:- What does count to twelve imply?
A.1:- The poet through this expression commences the session of introspection and meditation.
Q.2:- Explain โ€˜without rush, enginesโ€™.
A.2:- The expression is a symbol of the Hubbub of modern life. In the modern competitive world of advancement, there is a rat race to outshine others. Life can be peaceful only if this thoughtless advancementโ€™ can be stopped.

Q.3:- Explain โ€˜sudden- strangenessโ€™.
A.3:- The exotic moment of introspection will build a sudden and strange feeling of universal brotherhood.

Q.4:- What is fisherman symbolic of?
A.4:- The fisherman symbolizes manโ€™s indiscriminate exploitation of nature for his vested interests.

Q.5:- Who does โ€˜thoseโ€™ refer to here?
A.5:- Thoseโ€™ refers to the politicians, the statesmen and the scientists who are involved in initiating and aggravating wars.

Q.6:- Explain โ€˜green wars, wars with gas, wars with fireโ€™.
A.6:- The expression refers to the chemical wars which man is waging against man and against nature. Manโ€™s activities are polluting nature and the chemical and nuclear weapons created by him have brought mankind to its dead end.

Q.7:- What does the poet mean by โ€˜victory with no survivors?
A.7:- Manโ€™s activities are indeed heading him he is getting victorious but the war which a man is waging will soon turn the โ€˜living planetโ€™ into a dead one and the war may be the victory of manโ€™s
scientific knowledge but there would be no survivors to celebrate this victory.

Q.8:- What does โ€˜total inactivityโ€™ imply?
A.8:- โ€˜Total Inactivityโ€™ implies a phase of complete stagnation when no destructive activity is taking place.

Q.9:- What is life โ€˜all about?
A.9:- โ€˜Life is an ongoing process and thus is all about being up and doingโ€™. Life cannot come to standstill under any circumstances.

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