Question

Answer the following question in about 100-120 words.

Both the texts, ‘For Anne Gregory' and ‘The Sermon at Benares,’ grapple with the idea that external attributes are fleeting and subject to decay. Examine the similarities.

Answer 1

Both ‘For Anne Gregory’ and ‘The Sermon at Benares’ explore the idea that external attributes, such as beauty and youth, are temporary and subject to change.

In ‘For Anne Gregory,’ the poet emphasizes how people are often drawn to outward beauty rather than inner qualities. The poem suggests that true love should be based on a person’s character rather than their physical appearance, as beauty is fleeting and will eventually fade.

Similarly, in ‘The Sermon at Benares,’ Lord Buddha teaches that life is impermanent, and everything—including youth, beauty, and even life itself—is subject to decay. He preaches detachment from worldly attachments, emphasizing that only spiritual enlightenment leads to lasting peace.

Both texts convey the message that one should focus on inner virtues rather than temporary, external attributes.