1poetry ba english

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By

William Davies

Stanza No 1:What is this life if full of care,We have no time to stand and stare?No time to stand beneath the boughsAnd stare as long as sheep or cows.Reference:

These lines have been taken from “Leisure” written by “William Davies”.

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: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:No time to see, when woods we pass,Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass.No time to see, in broad daylight,Streams full of stars, like skies at night.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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 writer’s woe over business of modern man.

Stanza 3:No time to turn at Beauty’s glance,And watch her feet, how they can dance.No time to wait till her mouth canEnrich that smile her eye began.A poor life if, full of care,

Prepared By: M. Qadir Rafique

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We have no time to stand and stare.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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.

ByWalter De La Mare

Stanza 1:If I were Lord of Tartary.Myself and me alone,My bed should be of ivory,Of beaten gold my throne;Reference:

These lines have been taken from the poem “Tartary” written by “Walter De La Mare”.

Context: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. That’s why he creates an imaginary land though his imagination in which he hopes to enjoy all the comforts of life.

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 2And in my court should peacocks flaunt.And in my forests tigers haunt,And in my pools great fishes slantTheir fins athwart the sun.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.


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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:If I were Lord of Tartary,Trumpeters everydayTo every meal would summon me,And in my courtyard bray,\Reference to the Context:Same as above.

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:And in the evening lamps would shine,] Yellow as honey, red as wine,While harp, and flute, and mandoline,Made music sweet and gay.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

Explanation:In these lines, the poet gives an evening picture of his dreamy land. He says that in theevening lamps would shine in his court. The light of these lamps should be as yellow as honey andas red as wine. He wishes that musical instruments like harp, flute and mandolin should be played bymusicians in court. The combination of these musical instruments would create and sweet andpleasant effect. In short, in these lines the poet has given a romantic description of nights of“Tartary”.

Stanza 5:If I were Lord of Tartary.I’d wear a robe of beads,White and gold, and green they’d be_And clustered thick as seeds;Reference to the Context:

Same as above.


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Explanation: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:And ere should wane the morning_star,I’d don my robe and scimitar,And zebras seven should draw my carThrough Tartary’s dark glades.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:Lord of fruits of Tartary.Her rivers silver_pale !Lord of the hills of Tartary,Glen, thicket, wood, and dale!Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:Her flashing stars, her scented breeze,Her trembling lakes, like foamless seas,Her bird-delighting citron treesIn every purple vale !Reference to the Context:

Same and above.

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


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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”.

ByElizabeth Sewell

Stanza 1:I will drainLong draughts of quiteAs a purgation:

Reference:

These lines have been taken from the poem “New Year Resolution” written by “Elizabeth

Sewell”.

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 doesn’t 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: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:RememberTwice dailyWho I am;Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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 doesn’t 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:Will lie o’nightsIn the bony armsOf reality and be comforted.Reference to the Context:


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Same as above.

Explanation:In the ending lines of this short poem, the poetess gives her third intention on New Year.

The poetess doesn’t 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.

ByMaya Angelou

Stanza 1:I’ve got the children to tendThe clothes to mendThe floor to mopThe food to shop.Reference:

These lines have been taken from the poem “Women Work” by “Maya Angelou”.

Context: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 poetess’s desire to escape from dull routine of life and having the company of nature.

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:Then chicken to fryThe baby to dryI got company to feedThe garden to weed.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:I’ve got the shirts to press


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The tots to dressThe cane to be cutI got to clean up this hut..Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:Shine on me, sunshineRain on me, rainFall softly, dewdropsAnd cool my brow again.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:Storm, blow me from hereWith your fiercest windLet me float across the skyTill I can rest again.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:Fall gently, snow flakesCover me with whiteCold icy kisses andLet me rest tonight.


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Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:Sun, rain, curving skyMountain, oceans, leaf and stoneStar shine, moon glowYou’re all that I can call my own.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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.

ByD.J. Enright

Stanza 1:When everybody has short hair,The rebel lets his hair grow long,When everybody has long hair,The rebel cuts his hair short.

Reference:

These lines have been taken from the poem “The Rebel” written by “D.J. Enright”.

Context: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.


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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:When everybody talks during the lesson,The rebel doesn’t say a word.When nobody talks during the lesson,The rebel creates a disturbance.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:When everybody wears a uniform,The rebel dresses in fantastic clothes.When everybody wears fantastic clothesThe rebel dresses soberly.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:In the company of dog lovers,The rebel expresses a preference for cats.In the company of cat lovers,The rebel puts a good word for dogs.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.


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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:When everybody is praising the sun,The rebel remarks on the need for rain.When everybody is greeting the rain,The rebel regrets the absence of sun.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:When everybody goes to the meetingThe rebel stays at home and reads a book,When everybody stays at home and reads a book,The rebel goes to the meeting.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:

When everybody says, Yes please!

The rebel says, No thank you.When everybody says; No thank you,The rebel says, Yes please!Reference to the Context:

Same as above.


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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:It is good that we have rebelsYou may not find it very good to be one.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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.

ByRobert Browning

Stanza 1:It was roses, roses, all the way,With myrtle mixed in my path like madThe house-roof seemed to heave and away,The church-spires flamed, such flags they had,A year ago this very day.Reference:

These lines have been taken from the poem “Patriot into Traitor” written by “Robert

Browning”.

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: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.


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Stanza 2:The air broke into a mist with bells,The old walls rocked with the crowd and cries.Had I said, ‘Good folk, mere noise repels–But give me your sun from yonder skies?They had answered: And afterward, what else?.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:Alack, it was I who leaped at the sunTo give it to my loving friends to keepNaught man could do, have I felt undone;And you see my harvest, what I reapThis very day, now a year is run.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:There’s nobody on the house-tops now–Just a palsied few at the windows set;For the best of the sight is, all allow,At the shambles Gate—or, better yet,By the very scaffold’s foot, I trow..Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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 scaffold’s foot for hanging. So the scene has changed with in only one year.

Stanza 5:In go in the rain, and more than meeds,


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A rope cuts both my wrists behind;And I think, by the feel my fore head bleedsFor they fling, whoever has a mind,Stones at me for my year’s misdeeds.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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.

Stanza 6:Thus I entered, and thus I goIn triumph, people have dropped down dead.‘Paid by the world, what dost thou oweMe?’—God might question; now instead,‘Tis God shall repay: I am safer so.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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.

By

Edward Lowbury

Stanza 1:Kagwa hunted the lion.Through bush and forest went his spear.One day he found the skull of a manAnd said to it, “How did you come here”?The skull opened its mouth and said‘Talking brought me here’.Reference:

These lines have been taken from the poem “The Huntsman” written by “Edward

Lowbury”.

Context: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.


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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 huntsman’s story.

Stanza 2:Kagwa buried home;Went to the King’s chair and spoke;‘In the forest I found a talking skull’.The king was silent. Then he said slowly‘Never since I was born of my motherHave I seen or heard of a skull which spoke’.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:The king called out his guards‘Two of you go with himAnd find the talking skull;But if his tale is a lieAnd the skull speaks no word,This Kagwa himself must die’.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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 rode into the forest;For days and nights they found nothingAt last they saw the skull; Kagwa

Said to it: How did you come here?The skull said nothing Kagwa implored,But the skull said nothing.

Meanings of difficult words:Implore--- .



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Same as above.

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:The guards said ‘Kneel down’They killed him with sword and spearThen the skull opened its mouth;‘Huntsman, how did you come here?And the dead man answered:

‘Talking brought me here’.

Meaning of difficult words:Kneel down--- .


Same as above.

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.

ByElizabeth Bishop

Stanza 1:The art of losing is not hard to master;So many things seen filled with the intentTo be lost that their loss is not disasterReference:

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.


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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:Lose something everyday. Accept the flusterOf lost door keys, the hour badly spent.The art of losing is not hard to master.Meanings of difficult words:

Fluster---_______.


Same as above.

Explanation:In these lines the poetess gives us an important message that is directly related with humanlife. The message is that a man should not feel sorry or sad over losses of some ordinary things. Shesays that one should have the courage to bear the loss of door keys or a badly spent hour. Their loss 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:Then practice losing farther, losing faster;Places and names and where it was you went.To travel. None of these will bring disasterReference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:I lost my mother’s watch. And look; my last, orNext-to-last, of three loved houses went.The art of losing isn’t hard to masterReference to the Context:

Same as above.

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 mother’s


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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:I lost two cities, lovely ones. And, vaster,Some realms I owned, two rivers, a continent.I miss them but it wasn’t a disaster.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:

Even losing (the joking voice, a gesture

I love) I shan’t have lied. It’s evidentThe art of losing’s not too hard to masterThough it may look like (Write it) like disaster.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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.

ByWilliam Wordsworth

Stanza 1:Behold her, single in the field,Yon solitary Highland lass;Reaping and singing by herself;Stop here, or gently pass.Reference:

These lines have been taken from the poem “The Solitary Reaper” written by “William


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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: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:Alone she cuts and binds the grain,And sings a melancholy strain;O listen; for the Vale profoundIs overwhelming with the sound.Melancholy Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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 did ever chauntMore welcome notes to weary bandsOf travellers in some shady hauntAmong Arabian sands;Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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 nev’r was heardIn spring–time from the Cuckoo-bird,Breaking the silence of the seasAmong the farthest Hebrides.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.


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Explanation:In these lines, the poet compares the singing of the girl with the singing of a cuckoo. He says that the cuckoo’s 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:Will no one tell me what she sings?Perhaps the plaintive numbers flowFor old, unhappy, far-off things,And battles long ago.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:Or is it more humble lay,Familiar matter of today?Some natural sorrow, loss or pain.That has been, and may be again?.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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.

Stanza 7:Whatever the theme, the Maiden songAs if her song could have no ending;I saw her singing at her work,And o’er the sickle bending–Reference to the Context:

Same as above.


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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:I listened, motionless and still;And, as I mounted up the hill,The music in my heart I bore,Long after it was beard no more.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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.

ByWilliam Shakespeare

Stanza No1:All the world’s a stage,And all the men and women merely players:They have their exits and their entrances;And one man in his time plays many parts,His acts being seven ages.Reference:

These lines have been taken from the poem “All the World’s a Stage” written by “William

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.


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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:At first the infant,Mewling and puking in the nurse’s arms.And then the whining school-boy, with his satchel,And shining morning face, creeping like snailUnwilling to school.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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 man’s 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:And then the lover,Sighing like a furnace, with a woeful balladMade to his mistress’ eyebrow.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

Explanation:In these lines, third stage of a man’s 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 beloved’s 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 and quick in quarrel,Seeking the bubble reputationEven in the cannon’s mouth.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

Explanation:In these lines, the poet describes fourth stage a man’s 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.


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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:And then the justice,In fair round belly with good capon lin’d,With eyes severe, and beard ith of formal cut,Full of wise saws and modern instances;And so he plays his part.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

Explanation:In these lines, the poet describes fifth stage of a man’s 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:The sixth age shifts,Into the lean and slipper’d pantaloon,With spectacles on nose and pouch on side,His youthful hose will sav’d, a world too wide,For his shrunk shank; and his big manly voice,Turning again toward childish treble, pipesAnd whistle in his sound.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

Explanation:In these lines, the poet sixth stage of a man’s 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:Last scene of all,That ends this strange eventful history,Is second childshness and mere oblivionSans teeth, sans eyes, sans taste sans everything.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

Explanation:In these lines, the poet describes the last stage of a man’s 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


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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.

ByT.S. Elliot

Stanza 1:Standing upon the shore of all we knowWe linger for a moment doubtfully,Then with a song upon our lips, sail weAcross the harbor bar–no chart to showNo light to warn of rocks which lie below,But let us yet put forth courageously.Reference:

These lines have been taken from the poem “Departure and Arrival” written by “T.S. Elliot”.

Context:This poem was written at the departure of 19 th 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

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:Although the path be tortuous and slow,Although it bristles with a thousand fears,To hopeful eye of youth it still appearsA lane by which the rose and hawthorn growWe hope it may be, would that we might know;Would we might look into future years.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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


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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:Great duties call–the twentieth centuryMore grandly dowered that those which came before,Summons–who knows what time may hold in store,Or what great deed the distant years may see,What conquest over pain and misery,What heroes greater than were ever of yore.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

Explanation:This poem was written at the departure of 19 th 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:But if this century is to be more greatThan those before, her sons must make her soAnd we are her sons, we must goWith eager hearts to help mould well her fate,And see that she shall gain such proud estateAnd shall on future centuries bestow.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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–may weIn future for the good until they die,And ask no other question than to knowThat they have helped the cause to victory,That with their aid the flag is raised on high.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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


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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:Sometime in distant years when we are grownGray–haired and old, whatever be our lot,We shall desire to see again the spotWhich, whatsoever we have been or doneOr to what distant lands we may have gone,Through all the years will never have been forgot.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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

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.

ByWilliam Blake

Stanza 1:I was angry with my friend:

I told my wrath, my wrath did end.

I was angry with my foe:

I told it not, my wrath did grow.

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.


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Stanza 2:And I watered it in fears, Night and morning with tears:

And I sunned it with smilesAnd with soft deceitful wiles.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:And it grew both day and night,Till it bore apple bright;And my foe beheld it shine,And he knew that it was mine,Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:

And into my garden stoleWhen the night had veil’d the pole:

In the morning glad I seeMy foe outstretch’d beneath the tree.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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 poet’s concealed hatred killed his enemy.

ByEmily Dickinson


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Stanza 1:Because I could not stop for death–He kindly stopped for me–The carriage held but just Ourselves–And immortality.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–He knew no hasteAnd I had put awayMy labour and my leisure too,For his Civility.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

Explanation: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:We passed the School, where Children stroveAt Recess–in the Ring,We passed the Field of Gazing grainWe passed the Setting Sun–Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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


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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 rather- He passed Us–The Dews drew quivering and chill–For only Gossamer, my Gown–My Tippet–only Tulle–Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:We passed before a House that seemedA Swelling of the Ground–The roof was scarcely visible–The Cornice–in the Ground–Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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–‘tis Centuries–and yetFeels shorter than the dayI first surmised the Horses’ headsWere towards Eternity-Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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.


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ByEdward Thomas

Stanza 1:I have come to the borders of sleep,The unfathomable deepForest where all must loseTheir way, however straightOr winding, soon or late;They cannot choose.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:Many a road trackThat, since the dawn’s first crack,Up to the forest brink,Deceived the travelers,Suddenly now blurs,And in they sink.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:Here love ends,Despair, ambition ends;All pleasure and all troubles,Although most sweet or bitter,Here ends in sleep that is sweeterThan tasks most noble


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Same as above.

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:There is not any bookOr face of dearest lookThat I would mot turn from nowTo go into the unknownI must enter, and leave, alone.I know not how.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:The tall forest towers;Its cloudy foliage lowersAhead, shelf above shelf;Its silence I hear and obeyThat I may lose my wayAnd myself.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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 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.

ByRobert Frost


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Stanza 1:My long two-pointed ladders sticking through a treeTowards heaven still,And there’s barrel that I didn’t fillBeside it, and thee may be two or threeApples I didn’t pick upon some boughBut I am done with apple-picking now.Reference:

These lines have been taken form the poem “After apple 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 2:Essence of winter sleep is on the night,The scent of apples: I am drowsing off.I cannot rub the strangeness from my sightI got from looking through a pane of glassI skimmed this morning from the drinking troughAnd I held against the world of hoary grassIt melted, and I let it fall and break.But I was wellUpon my way to sleep before it fell,And I could tellReference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:What from my dreaming was about to takeMagnified apples appear and disappear,Stem end and blossom end,And every fleck of russet showing clear.


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My instep arch not only keeps the arch;It keeps the pressure of ladder-roundI feel the ladder sway as the boughs bend.And I keep hearing from the cellar binThe rumbling soundOf load on load of apples coming in.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

Explanation:Here in these lines, the poet describes his dreams while he is half sleep. The apples appearbefore him in large size and disappear. The trees, from the roots up to the branches giving flowers ofthe fruit, appear. The reddish brown colour of apples becomes clearly visible to the poet. Stillstanding on the ladder, his instep is keeping the ladder in balancing. But the branches of the treehave 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:For I have had too muchOf apple-picking; I am overtiredOf the great harvest I myself desired.There were ten thousand thousand fruit to touch,Cherish in hand, left down and not let fallFor allThat struck the earthNo matter if not bruised or spiked with stubble,Went surely to the cider-apple heapAs of no worth.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.

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:One can see what will troubleThis sleep of mine, whatever sleep it is,Were he no gone,The woodchuck could say whether it’s like hisLongs sleep, as I describe-its coming onOf just some human sleep.Reference to the Context:

Same as above.


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Explanation:These are ending lines of the poem. The poet says that who wants to sleep is well aware whatwill disturb his sleep. Apart forms that, he wants to know what kind of sleep he is having. He sayswoodchuck could tell it easily about it. But that animal has gone. Now poet does not say surelywhether his sleep will be like that of woodchuck or just a normal sleep for a few hours. He cannotalso say whether it will be ordinary human sleep or the sleep of death. Here, in these lines the poet 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.

Qadir Jinnah Science Academy Mallian KalanNear Govt High School Mallian Kalan

Contact No # 03024741124


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