Poem - Chapter 4
A Thing of Beauty
Before you read : Solutions of Questions on Page
Number : 98
Question:
What pleasure does a beautiful thing give us? Are
beautiful things worth treasuring?
Answer :
The world is filled with negative elements which make
our life dull, sad, depressing and bereft of hope. In
such moments, a beautiful thing gives us everlasting joy
and helps us forget our sorrows. Yes, a beautiful thing is
worth treasuring because even its memory soothes our
nerves and inspires us to overcome the challenges of life.
(A model answer has been provided for students'
reference. It is strongly recommended that students
themselves prepare the answer based on their own
experience.)
Think it out : Solutions of Questions on Page Number :
99
Question:
List the things of beauty mentioned in the poem.
Answer :
According to the poet, there are numerous things of
beauty that help us forget our sorrows. These are the
sun, the moon, old and young trees that provide shade to
'simple sheep', daffodils, clear streams of rivers, musk-
roses in the forest and the lovely tales of mighty men.
Question:
List the things that cause suffering and pain.
Answer :
The poet lists a number of things that cause suffering and
pain, such as despondency, depression, unhealthy and
wrong ways taken up by humans to acquire their desired
goals, etc. The poet also feels that there is a real dearth of
noble souls in this world.
Question:
What does the line, 'Therefore are we wreathing a flowery
band to bind us to earth' suggest to you?
Answer :
This line suggests that things of beauty bind us to the
earth with a beautiful connection. According to the
poet, even if the world is not worth living because of the
innumerable reasons that ultimately result in gloom and
depression, the zeal to live a happy and content life can be
derived from the sight of the beautiful bounties of nature
around us.
Question:
What makes human beings love life in spite of troubles
and sufferings?
Answer :
Human beings love life in spite of troubles and sufferings
because of the existence of several natural and beautiful
things around them. These things of beauty never fade.
They give joy and optimism to human mind, and thus,
help in overcoming or bearing the troubles and sufferings.
Question:
Why is 'grandeur' associated with the 'mighty dead'?
Answer :
The 'grandeur' of the 'mighty dead' lies in their noble
deeds. They have left behind the beautiful legacy of
their brave acts. Their selfless sacrifice for their nation
and deeds for the welfare of mankind still continue to
inspire us.
Question:
Do we experience things of beauty only for short
moments or do they make a lasting impression on us?
Answer :
The poet believes that when we encounter a beautiful
thing, even for a small moment, the pleasure remains with
us forever. It leaves a lasting impression that inspires us
to live life with hope and optimism.
Question:
What image does the poet use to describe the beautiful
bounty of the earth?
Answer :
The poet uses the image of 'an endless fountain of
immortal drink' to describe the beautiful bounty of the
earth. The earth, like a fountain, pours unto us numerous
beautiful sights like the sun, the moon, flowers, rivers and
greenery
