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प्रश्न
Read the poem again and write an appreciation of the poem in a paragraph format with the help of given points.
Points
- Title
- Poet
- Rhyme scheme
- Favourite line
- Theme/Central idea
- Figures of speech
- Special features - Type of the poem, language, tone, implied meaning, etc.
- Why I like/ dislike the poem.
उत्तर
Appreciation of the poem
‘Animals’
The poem titled "Animals," attributed to Walt Whitman, serves as a poignant exploration of the stark contrasts between the serene world of animals and the complexities of human existence. Whitman, renowned for his free verse style, eschews a rigid rhyme scheme, allowing the poem to flow organically and mirror the untamed nature of the animal kingdom.
The line that resonates strongly, "They do not make me sick discussing their duty to God," encapsulates the poet's admiration for the unpretentious and contented lives led by animals, untainted by the burdens that often afflict humans. Through a straightforward language, Whitman delicately weaves a metaphorical thread, pondering the origin of tokens as a possible link between the poet and these creatures.
The poem invites readers to reflect on a shared history, suggesting that humans may have relinquished virtues observed in animals during evolution. The implied meaning revolves around a yearning for simplicity, a desire for a life unencumbered by the intricate issues that plague human existence. Whitman's deliberate use of uncomplicated language, absent elaborate figurative embellishments, stands as a special feature, underscoring the raw sincerity of the poet's contemplation. The tone remains contemplative and appreciative throughout, emphasizing the poet's admiration for the unassuming existence of animals.
The poem's call to observe and adopt the admirable qualities exhibited by animals to enhance human relationships resonates with me personally. It serves as a gentle reminder that in simplifying our lives and reconnecting with inherent virtues, we might find a path toward more genuine and fulfilling human connections.
While some might be put off by the lack of a formal structure or intricate figurative language, I appreciate the poem's honesty and the subtle encouragement it provides to reclaim qualities that may have been lost on the journey of human evolution. In essence, "Animals" becomes a reflective piece, inviting readers to rediscover simplicity and forge a deeper connection with the innate goodness that may still reside within us.
APPEARS IN
संबंधित प्रश्न
Put the following attributes/ abilities given below in the proper circles.
(a) self-control
(b) communicates
(c) love and care
(d) cooks
(e) good manners
(f) has 360° vision
(g) shows gratitude
(h) lives for more than 150 years
(i) swims
(j) learns computing
(k) worships god
(l) sleeps in standing position
(m) stands up immediately after birth
(n) brings up children
(o) belongs to various species
We come across many animals in our vicinity. We have also read about different animals in books. Make a list of all animals that fall under various categories. One is given to you.
| Amphibians | Mammals | Wild Animals | Aquatic Animals | Pet Animals |
| frog | cow | lion | octopus | cat |
Encourage students to read/use reference material to complete the activity.
Complete the following.
The poet wishes he could _____________.
State whether the following statement is true or false.
Animals do not worship other animals.
State whether the following statement is true or false.
The poet has retained all his natural virtues.
With the help of the poem find the differences between animals and human beings.
|
Animals I think I could turn and live with animals, they are so placid and self-contain’d -Walt Whitman |
| Human beings | Animals |
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Justify how ‘Animals’ by Walt Whitman is a criticism of mankind and its ways.
Read the following extract and do the given activities.
A1. State whether the following statements are true or false: (2)
- Animals show their relations to us.
- Humans have given up many good qualities.
- Animals sweat and whine about their condition.
- Animals are placid and self-contained.
| I think I could turn and live with animals, they are so placid and self-contain'd, I stand and look at them long and long. They do not sweat and whine about their condition, They do not lie awake in the dark and weep for their sins, They do not make me sick discussing their duty to God, Not one is dissatisfied, not one is demented with the mania of owning things. Not one kneels to another, nor to his kind that lived thousands of years ago, Not one is respectable or unhappy over the whole earth, So they show their relations to me and I accept them, They bring me tokens of myself, they evince them plainly in their possession. I wonder where they get those tokens, Did I pass that way huge times ago and negligently drop them? |
A2. Answer the following question with the help of the given extract: (2)
(i) What craze do animals never display? Why?
A3. Pick out one example of Rhetorical question from the extract. (1)
List any two things that animals do and humans don't.
Walt Whitman speaks of the human race with a tinge of sarcasm. Which are the two reasons that you agree with?
