NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English First Flight Chapter 1 Dust Of Snow Poem
First flight
Thinking about the Poem
This poem presents a moment that seems simple, but has a larger significance. [Compare this other quotation from Robert Frost: “Always, always a larger significance… A little thing touches a larger thing.”)
Q1. What is a “dust of snow”? What does the poet say has changed his mood? How has the poet’s mood changed?
Ans. The term ‘dust of snow’ refers to the tiny particles or flakes of snow. When a sudden shower of snow in the form of this ‘dust of snow’ occurs, it brings about a significant shift in the poet’s emotions. Specifically, the poet’s mood transitions from a state of sadness to that of happiness. This transformative experience leaves the poet feeling rejuvenated and eager to savor the remainder of the day.
Q2. How does Frost present nature in this poem? The following questions may help you to think of an answer.
(i) What are the birds that are usually named in poems? Do you think a crow is often mentioned in poems? What images come to your mind when you think of a crow?
(ii) Again, what is “a hemlock tree”? Why doesn’t the poet write about a more beautiful tree such as a maple, or an oak, or a pine?
(iii) What do the ‘crow and hemlock’ represent-joy or sorrow? What does the dust of snow that the crow shakes off a hemlock tree stand for?
Ans. Frost presents nature in a very different manner in the poem:
(i) In this particular poem, Robert Frost deviates from the conventional practice of using beautiful and graceful creatures like peacocks, parrots, cuckoos, mynahs, as well as trees adorned with vibrant flowers and fruits. Instead, Frost takes an unconventional approach by selecting a crow as the subject of his poem. Crows, being black in color and known for their raucous calls, are often associated with negative symbolism and considered harbingers of misfortune. The mere thought of a crow evokes feelings of sadness and melancholy, creating a somber atmosphere within the reader’s mind.
(ii) Robert Frost intentionally deviated from the common choice of using aesthetically pleasing trees such as oaks, maples, or pines, and instead focused on a hemlock tree in his poem. The hemlock tree is known for being a poisonous plant with small white flowers. By deliberately selecting this particular tree, Frost aimed to convey his specific mood and emotions through symbolism. The hemlock tree, with its inherent danger and toxicity, represents a sense of darkness, despair, or even impending doom. Frost’s decision to omit the more conventionally beautiful trees signifies his desire to express a mood or feeling that deviates from the traditional notions of beauty and optimism.
(iii) The crow and hemlock tree in the poem symbolize the poet’s experience of sorrow and depression within a materialistic world. The choice of these symbols conveys a sense of bleakness and despair. On the other hand, the “dust of snow” represents a symbol of natural joy and energy. When the crow shakes off this dust of snow from the hemlock tree, it signifies the poet’s transition from a state of sadness and despair to a time filled with joy and optimism. This transformative act suggests that the poet is able to find moments of happiness and rejuvenation even in the midst of a challenging and gloomy world.
Q3. Have there been times when you felt depressed or hopeless? Have you experienced a similar moment that changed your mood that day?
Ans. I have encountered numerous instances in which I, too, experienced feelings of depression and hopelessness. These emotions were often triggered by the behavior and attitudes of others, as well as by my own actions. However, there was a particular occasion when I was feeling extremely upset, and in an attempt to alleviate my distress, I decided to go for a walk. As I strolled through the park, my attention was captured by the sight of a girl joyfully playing with a puppy, showering it with affection and nourishment. Witnessing the pure happiness they shared had a profound impact on my state of mind, instantly uplifting my spirits. From that moment onward, my mood transformed, and I felt an overwhelming sense of joy that lingered throughout the rest of the day. I even joined in their play, embracing the opportunity to partake in their happiness.