Wisdom Paves the Way: Class 8 NCERT | Full Summary & All Solved Exercise Answers

Wisdom Paves the Way

Complete Play Guide & Exercise Solutions

Table of Contents

• Play Summary
• Word Meanings
• Before We Read Activities
• Let us discuss
• Let us think and reflect
• Let us learn
• Let us listen
• Let us speak
• Let us write
• Let us explore

Play Summary

"Wisdom Paves the Way" is a play about four intelligent young men—Ram Datt, Shiv Datt, Har Datt, and Dev Datt—who are traveling to the city of Ujjain in search of work. They hope to gain an audience with the King, confident that he will recognize their talents. On their way, they come across the fresh tracks of a camel and, through keen observation, each deduces a specific detail about the animal. Ram Datt figures out it's lame, Shiv Datt that it's blind in one eye, Har Datt that it has a short tail, and Dev Datt that it's suffering from stomach pain.

They soon encounter a distressed merchant who has lost his camel. When the four men describe the camel perfectly, the merchant, instead of being impressed, accuses them of theft since they claim they haven't seen the animal. He drags them to the King's court. Before the King, each man calmly explains the logical reasoning behind his deduction. The King is thoroughly impressed by their sharp intellect and wisdom. He dismisses the merchant's baseless accusation and, recognizing the value of such minds, offers the four men positions as his royal advisors. The play concludes with the men humbly accepting the honor, their long journey ending with unexpected success, proving that wisdom indeed paves the way.

Word Meanings

Difficult Word/Expression	Meaning
adorned	beautified
tapestries	heavy decorative fabrics woven with pictures or patterns
resolute	determined
bustling	busy
eludes	difficult to obtain
devise	to think of
deliberate	to think carefully
scrutinise	to look carefully at
in haste	in a hurry
pursued	chased
countenance	facial expression
distressed	worried
astray	away from the correct path
indignant	angry
yonder	over there
draperies	long thick curtains
canopy	a cover fixed over a seat for decoration
grievance	complaint
accusations	claims that someone has done something wrong
deduce	to determine by reasoning
discern	to see or notice something
foliage	green leaves and plants
fended off	guarded against
insight	a clear/deep understanding
sound	healthy
intimately	in a detailed way
flawless	perfect
chastened	felt sorry
counsel	advice
beacon	guiding light

Let us do these activities before we read

II. Classify each one as either 'knowledge' or 'wisdom'.

Knowledge	Wisdom
1. Riya's understanding of plant care helped her grow a healthy vegetable garden in her backyard.	2. Mr. Kumar values time with family over chasing wealth.
3. Karuna's expertise in computer programming helped her develop a successful app.	4. Rohan understood the value of time management and created a timetable to complete his assignments systematically.
6. Ms. Vaijayanthi delivered a lecture on Indian Classical music at the cultural festival.	5. Ramesh chose to forgive his friend for a misunderstanding.

Let us discuss

Scene I: Complete the following sentences with suitable reasons.

1. Shiv Datt said, "I believe it has been over a week, perhaps even longer," because it had been a long time since they left the village.
2. Dev Datt said, "Indeed, we ought to be united in this hope. That is why we press on towards Ujjain," because their shared goal of meeting the King gave them the determination to continue their difficult journey.
3. Har Datt said, "Look there, friends. A camel has passed this way. The tracks are fresh," because he could see clear footprints on the dusty road that had not yet been disturbed by wind or time.
4. Shiv Datt said, "It appears to be a merchant, running as if pursued by trouble," because the man was running quickly and had a worried or distressed expression on his face.
5. The merchant said, "How could you possibly know that? The poor creature has been unwell for two weeks now. Surely you are a healer!" because he was astonished that Dev Datt knew about the camel's stomach pain without having seen the animal.
6. Dev Datt said, "You are free to do as you wish, sir. If the King desires our presence, we shall be waiting under that banyan tree yonder," because he was confident and calm, knowing they had done nothing wrong and were not afraid to face the King.

Scene II: Arrange the following events in order.

1. (3) The King asks the merchant to clearly state his accusation.
2. (8) The merchant accuses the four men of knowing a lot about his missing camel.
3. (2) Ram Datt explains how he infers from the tracks that the camel is lame.
4. (5) Shiv Datt reveals that the camel is blind in its right eye as it had only chewed on the leaves on the left side of the road.
5. (7) Har Datt clarifies how he knew that the camel has a short tail.
6. (6) Dev Datt explains his observation about the camel's pain and careful movement.
7. (4) The King praises the young men for their observations and dismisses the merchant's accusation.
8. (1) The King makes the four young men his advisers, impressed by their skills.

Let us think and reflect

I. Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow.

Extract 1

1. Identify the false statement from the two given below and rectify it.
   False Statement: A. Dev Datt believes that finding employment is an easy task.
   Rectified Statement: Dev Datt believes that finding suitable employment may take a long time and require them to "wander many more roads."
2. What does Ram Datt's confidence in gaining the King's recognition tell us about him?
   It tells us that Ram Datt is confident in his and his friends' abilities and believes that their talents are valuable enough to be recognized by a ruler.
3. In the line, 'That's why we press on towards Ujjain', the phrase 'press on' refers to
   B. moving forward with determination
4. What can be inferred about Har Datt's character from his statement?
   C. He is cautious and thoughtful, preferring to plan ahead.

Extract 2

1. Select the option that is true for both Assertion (A) and Reason (R).
   B. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A). (The Merchant left because his accusation was proven baseless, not because the men were hired.)
2. The line, 'See beyond the obvious' means that the men had the ability to
   C. notice details that others might overlook
3. Complete the following sentence with a suitable reason.
   Ram Datt described the King's offer as 'an honour we had not dared to dream of' because they were simple travelers looking for any kind of work, and being appointed as royal advisors was an outcome far beyond their highest expectations.
4. How does the King's offer to the four men reflect his values as a ruler?
   It reflects that the King is a wise ruler who values intelligence, wisdom, and keen observation over status or wealth. He recognizes true talent and understands its importance in governing his kingdom.

II. Answer the following questions.

1. What does the dusty road leading to Ujjain tell us about the challenges of the young men's journey?
   The dusty road symbolizes a long, tiring, and difficult journey. It suggests that the young men have faced hardship and have been traveling for a while, yet they remain determined.
2. Why did the merchant become suspicious of the four men? What does this tell us about him?
   The merchant became suspicious because the men knew precise details about his lost camel without claiming to have seen it. This tells us that the merchant is quick to jump to conclusions, mistrustful, and perhaps not very imaginative, as he couldn't conceive of how they could know such things through deduction alone.
3. How do the four young men's observations about the camel serve as a turning point in the play?
   The observations are the turning point because they transform the men from ordinary, unemployed travelers into extraordinary individuals in the eyes of the King. Their deductions serve as an unconventional job interview, showcasing their unique talents and leading directly to their appointment as royal advisors.
4. Why did the King believe the four young men and not the merchant?
   The King believed the young men because they provided logical, flawless reasoning for each of their observations. Their explanations were based on evidence and deduction, whereas the merchant's claim was based only on suspicion and anger. The King, being wise, recognized the power of their intellect.
5. How does the capability of the four young men make them suitable to become advisors?
   Their capabilities—keen observation, logical deduction, and the ability to see beyond the obvious—are essential qualities for advisors. These skills allow them to analyze situations deeply, understand complex problems from small details, and provide insightful counsel, which is invaluable for a ruler.
6. Why does the merchant feel ashamed for accusing the four young men of stealing his camel? Explain in your own words.
   The merchant feels ashamed because he realizes how wrong he was. He publicly accused innocent men of being thieves in front of the King, only to have them prove their intelligence and integrity. He was proven to be foolish and quick to anger, which left him embarrassed and chastened.

Let us learn

I. Complete the sentences by filling in the noun form of the textual words.

1. Some word games need a lot of thought and deduction. (deduce)
2. We need to make close observations of animals in order to understand their behaviour. (observe)
3. A detailed scrutiny of the documents shows a lot of errors. (scrutinise)
4. You should not make any false accusations against anyone. (accuse)
5. She was given an award in recognition of her contribution to literature. (recognise)

II. Match the expressions in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2.

• 1. with all our hearts → (vi) complete sincerity
• 2. to be precise → (iv) exact and accurate
• 3. gain an audience with → (v) meeting or hearing someone
• 4. catch his breath → (vii) to pause or rest for some time
• 5. erupts in applause → (ii) starts cheering together
• 6. grand scheme of things → (viii) overall plan of life in a larger context
• 7. taken aback → (i) surprised
• 8. more than meets the eye → (iii) hidden information that is not obvious

III. Match the different meanings of 'face' and 'bear'.

Face

• (i) Ravi turned to face his father, when he was called. → 2. (v.) to be positioned with the face or front towards
• (ii) The face of the clock was painted red and blue. → 4. (n.) the front or surface of a thing
• (iii) She has a round, smiling face. → 1. (n.) the front part of a person's head
• (iv) We should be ready to face life's challenges. → 3. (v.) to deal with a difficult task or situation

Bear

• (i) The trees that I planted in my garden took a long time to bear fruit. → 4. (v.) produce; give birth to
• (ii) I spotted a bear on a wildlife safari. → 3. (n.) a large heavy mammal
• (iii) Riya agreed to bear the responsibilities with confidence. → 2. (v.) accept
• (iv) I can't bear the sound of vehicles honking. → 1. (v.) tolerate

IV. Match the highlighted words with the functions they express.

• 1. I will gladly pay your fee... → (ix) willingness
• 2. You must have stolen it... → (v) logical conclusion
• 3. You shall come with me... → (x) command
• 4. How could you possibly know that? → (i) expression of disbelief
• 5. I am confident he would recognise our talents... → (xi) possibility
• 6. A camel with a long tail would have fended off... → (ii) imagined (hypothetical) possibility
• 7. They may tell us more than meets the eye. → (viii) prediction
• 8. May your wisdom shine upon Ujjain... → (vi) wish or hope
• 9. Indeed, we ought to be united in this hope. → (iii) moral obligation or advice
• 10. We need to devise a strategy. → (vii) necessity
• 11. ...as if it stood before you, yet you dare to claim... → (iv) challenge

V. Complete the following story with modal verbs.

An old man, known for his wisdom, lived in a small village. One day, a young boy asked him, "How 1. can (ability) I become wise like you?" The old man smiled and said, "Wisdom 2. must (necessity) be earned through patience. You 3. should (suggestion) listen, more than you speak." The boy thought for a while and replied, "It 4. might (weak possibility) take years, but I'll try." The old man nodded. "You 5. need to (obligation) learn from your mistakes too. Wisdom 6. may (possibility) come slowly, but it always arrives for those who seek it." The boy knew he 7. could (ability) become wise if he followed the old man's advice.

VI. Rewrite the following sentences using appropriate modal verbs.

1. It is advisable for you to think before you speak.
   You should think before you speak.
2. It is unnecessary to worry about things beyond your control.
   You need not worry about things beyond your control.
3. It is not possible for a person to gain experience without taking risks.
   A person cannot gain experience without taking risks.
4. It is essential to treat others with kindness, even when they disagree with you.
   You must treat others with kindness, even when they disagree with you.
5. It is not allowed to interrupt when someone else is speaking.
   You must not interrupt when someone else is speaking.

Let us listen

I. Match statements 1-6 given below to the speakers (i)-(iv).

• Statement 1: Witty characters prove that cleverness is as powerful as strength. → Speaker (ii)
• Statement 2: Witty characters show us ways to make learning enjoyable. → Speaker (iv)
• Statement 3: Witty characters in a story keep the reader involved. → Not used
• Statement 4: Witty characters teach me that tricky situations can be managed calmly. → Speaker (iii)
• Statement 5: Witty characters add excitement to a story by their extraordinary deeds. → Not used
• Statement 6: Witty characters can deactivate tense situations with their cleverness. → Speaker (i)

Let us write

I. Write a letter of complaint.

15, Nehru Nagar,

Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh

14 October 2025

The Commissioner,

Municipal Corporation,

Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh

Subject: Complaint regarding the poor condition of Kutcha Road in Nehru Nagar

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to draw your attention to the deplorable condition of the kutcha road leading to our colony, Nehru Nagar. Due to the recent heavy rains, the road has become virtually unusable and is causing significant inconvenience to the residents.

The road is now riddled with large potholes, which are filled with stagnant water. Firstly, these potholes pose a serious threat to commuters, especially two-wheeler riders and pedestrians, and could lead to accidents. Secondly, the stagnant water has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of diseases like dengue and malaria in our locality. As a result, the daily life of residents has been severely disrupted.

Firstly, I would like to suggest that immediate action be taken to fill the potholes as a temporary measure. Secondly, we request you to initiate the process of constructing a proper, permanent road for our colony. I request you to look into this matter urgently and take the necessary action to resolve these issues.

Thank you.

I look forward to your prompt response.

Yours faithfully,

(Signature)

Rohan Sharma

Let us explore

This final section encourages you to bring the play to life and explore other classic tales of intelligence. You are invited to:

1. Stage the play 'Wisdom Paves the Way' in your class, following the detailed steps provided for production, from choosing a director to performing for an audience.
2. Visit the library to read other famous stories that celebrate wit and wisdom, such as tales of Vikramaditya and Betal, Gopal the Jester, Tenali Rama, and the Panchatantra Tales.

Chapter 5 Ila Sachani: Embroidering Dreams With Her Feet - Class Poorvi NCERT Solved

Ila Sachani: Embroidering Dreams With Her Feet - Class 6 Poorvi NCERT Solution

This guide offers complete, easy-to-understand solutions for all questions and activities in the section "Ila Sachani: Embroidering Dreams With Her Feet" from Unit 5 of the NCERT Class 6 English textbook, Poorvi. Explore the inspiring story of Ila Sachani and learn about her journey, the art of embroidery, and the power of determination.

Table of Contents

• 1. Let us do these activities before we read (Page 21)
• 2. Let us discuss (Page 25)
• 3. Let us think and reflect (Page 26)
• 4. Let us learn (Page 26-28)
• 5. Let us listen (Page 28)
• 6. Let us speak (Page 29)
• 7. Let us write (Page 29)

1. Let us do these activities before we read (Page 21)

I. Look at the given picture and information. Discuss the questions with your teacher and classmates.

1. Do you think Pranav's task is simple? Why or why not?
   No, Pranav's task is not simple. Painting with one's feet requires immense practice, control, and concentration, which is much harder than using hands.
2. How does Pranav's special ability make you feel?
   Pranav's ability makes me feel inspired and amazed. It shows that with a strong will, a person can overcome any physical challenge.
3. What qualities do you think were important for Pranav to become successful?
   Qualities like determination, patience, hard work, and a positive attitude were very important for his success.
4. What message does Pranav’s story give us?
   Pranav’s story teaches us that we should never give up, no matter what difficulties we face. Our limitations do not define us; our courage and efforts do.

II. Look at the picture of Kathiawar embroidery. Discuss in pairs.

1. List the steps you think are needed to create this embroidery.
   The steps would be: first, drawing the design on the cloth; second, choosing the right coloured threads; third, threading the needle; and finally, making small, neat stitches to fill the design.
2. Discuss if these steps can be done with feet, instead of hands.
   It seems very difficult, but maybe possible. Holding the needle and cloth with feet and making precise stitches would require a lot of skill and practice.
3. What efforts would be needed if someone has to embroider with their feet? Do you think it is possible?
   It would need incredible focus, flexibility, and years of practice to train the feet to do such delicate work. Yes, I think it is possible, as people can achieve amazing things with dedication.

2. Let us discuss (Page 25)

Read the paragraphs and write the main idea for each. Then, match the main idea with two supporting details.

Paragraph	Main Idea	Two Supporting Details
1	Introduction to Ila Sachani's colourful embroidery	(i) Examples of embroidered things (ii) Ila's use of a shiny needle
2-3	Early challenges and family support	(i) Ila was born without the use of her hands. (ii) Her family taught her to use her feet for embroidery.
4	Mastering different embroidery styles	(i) She became an expert at threading a needle with her feet. (ii) She learned Kachhi, Kashmiri, and Lucknawi styles.
5	Gaining local admiration	(i) She first made designs for family and friends. (ii) Soon, her talent was discovered by the whole village.
6	Recognition at a state exhibition	(i) The government office in Surat displayed her work. (ii) People purchased her creations, making her famous.
7	National recognition and awards	(i) She participated in national-level exhibitions. (ii) She received many awards, including the President's Medal.
8-9	Message of her life story	(i) Financial independence and joy (ii) Challenges can be turned into victories

3. Let us think and reflect (Page 26)

I. Read the following lines and answer the questions that follow.

"Unlike other children, she could not use her hands in the usual way. While other small hands drew figures in the sand or plucked wild flowers, she wondered why she could not join them. She too wanted to hold a chalk in her hands and draw figures on a slate."

1. Choose the correct option to fill in the blank... 'Unlike other children' means that Ila was _______________ (unaware/ different/ simple)
   Answer: different
2. What could Ila have felt when she could not join others in things they did?
   She might have felt sad, left out, and frustrated because she couldn't do the simple things other children enjoyed.
3. Complete the following with a suitable reason.
   Ila could not draw figures on the slate because _______________.
   Answer: ...her hands did not work in the usual way.

II. What creative ways did Ila and her family use to overcome the challenges she faced?
Her family taught her to use her feet to do Kathiawar embroidery. Her parents also helped her learn to do other daily tasks like eating and combing her hair with her legs.

III. How did ‘new independence' help Ila?
'New independence' helped Ila by allowing her to earn a regular income from her art. More importantly, it brought her joy and satisfaction in doing something she loved.

IV. Why was the first state exhibition an important event in Ila's life?
The first state exhibition was important because it introduced her talent to a wider audience. People loved her work and bought it, which opened new doors for her and made her famous.

V. What does the sentence, ‘art has the power to rise above physical boundaries and touch the soul', tell us about the power of art?
This sentence means that art is a powerful form of expression that isn't limited by physical abilities. It can connect with people's emotions and feelings deeply, no matter how it is created.

VI. How can we be helpful and encouraging like Ila's family and friends when someone faces challenges?
We can be helpful by offering our support, showing them we believe in them, and helping them find new ways to do things. Being patient and celebrating their efforts is also very important.

VII. How can Ila's story help others to overcome challenges in their lives?
Ila's story shows that with determination, hard work, and a positive attitude, any challenge can be overcome. It teaches us not to give up on our dreams and that our abilities are not limited by our physical challenges.

4. Let us learn (Page 26-28)

I. Match the word to its correct synonym in Column C.

• tiny → small
• wonderful → fantastic
• quiet → silent
• task → work
• tough → difficult

II. Unscramble the antonyms of the words in Column A.

• 1. tiny - E G H U → HUGE
• 2. wonderful - R E E B L I T R → TERRIBLE
• 3. quiet - I Y N S O → NOISY
• 4. task - S I A E M T P → PASTIME
• 5. tough - S E Y A → EASY

III. Read the sentences from the text and focus on the highlighted words.

1. The highlighted words show a (ii) Large quantity.

2. Fill in the blanks:

1. We saw many buses on the road.
2. How much milk do you want?
3. There is a lot of milk needed.
4. I need many examples.
5. I have lots of energy left.
6. I ate a lot of rice.

5. Let us listen (Page 28)

You will listen to a talk about Kathiawar embroidery. As you listen, circle the correct option.

1. Form: (i) old
2. Colours: (ii) bright
3. Stitches: (ii) chain stitch
4. Seen on: (i) children's caps
5. Things used: (i) small mirrors
6. Designs: (ii) squares and triangles

6. Let us speak (Page 29)

In pairs, write down two questions you would like to ask Ila Sachani.

Here are two example questions:

1. What was the most difficult design you have ever created with your feet?
2. How did you feel when you received the President's Medal?

7. Let us write (Page 29)

Now, write a paragraph describing the artwork that you have created. Give a suitable title to your paragraph.

A Garden on Cardboard

I created a piece of art called "A Garden on Cardboard." For this, I used a piece of an old cardboard box as my canvas. I collected some colourful fallen flowers, small twigs, and green leaves from my garden. First, I arranged the twigs to look like the trunk and branches of a tree. Then, I carefully pasted the green leaves on the branches. Finally, I used the colourful flower petals to make bright flowers on my tree and some on the ground below. My artwork shows a beautiful, blooming tree and reminds me that we can create wonderful things from waste items.

Class 6 Poorvi Yoga–a Way of Life Complete NCERT Solution

Yoga – A Way of Life

Class 6 Poorvi “Yoga–a Way of Life” Complete NCERT Solution provides easy, exam-ready answers to all textbook tasks: Word Meaning, Let us discuss, Let us think and reflect, Let us learn, Let us listen, Let us speak, and Let us write, from Unit 4 Sports and Wellness for quick revision and scoring better.

Table of Contents

• Word Meaning
• Let us discuss
• Let us think and reflect
• Let us learn 
• Let us listen
• Let us speak 
• Let us write 

Word Meaning

Difficult words from the chapter with simple meanings and Hindi equivalents.

Word	Meaning (Simple English)	Meaning (Hindi)
originated	started in the past	उत्पन्न हुआ / शुरू हुआ
Sanskrit	an ancient Indian language	संस्कृत (प्राचीन भारतीय भाषा)
yuj	to join or to unite	जुड़ना / जोड़ना
harmony	balance and peace together	सामंजस्य / संतुलन
holistic	complete and whole (body and mind)	समग्र / पूर्ण
well-being	good health and happiness	कल्याण / स्वस्थ अवस्था
distractions	things that disturb focus	विखंडन / ध्यान भंग करने वाली चीजें
asanas	yoga postures	आसन (योग मुद्राएं)
endurance	ability to continue for longer	धैर्य / सहनशक्ति
circulation	movement of blood in the body	रक्त संचार
immune system	body’s power to fight illness	प्रतिरक्षा तंत्र
anxiety	worry and stress	चिंता / घबराहट
meditation	calm thinking with focus	ध्यान
posture	the way we hold our body	बैठने/खड़े होने की अवस्था
awareness	clear knowledge of what we do	जागरूकता / सचेतना

Let us discuss

Read the passage again and fill in the blanks with words from the box.

Box: sleep • lifestyle • health • strength • calm • stress • balance

Yoga is a practice that not only improves physical flexibility but also improves mental balance and leads to a healthier lifestyle. It involves a series of asanas, which increase muscular strength. Practising yoga also leads to a better body and mind balance and reduces body pain such as in the lower back. Moreover, the focus on breathing techniques and meditation makes the mind calm, lessens stress, and improves the quality of sleep. This helps to adopt a more positive life.

Let us think and reflect

1. What is the aim of yoga?
   The aim of yoga is to make the mind quiet and the body healthy, so a person can live with peace, balance, and good habits.
2. Explain the idea of unity in yoga.
   Unity means joining mind and body, thoughts and actions, and living in balance with nature.
3. What does the launch of the WHO mYoga app tell us about the importance of yoga?
   It shows that yoga is useful for everyone and is supported worldwide to improve health and daily practice.
4. Describe one long-term effect that the practice of yoga can have on a person's qualities.
   Regular yoga builds patience and focus. It helps a person stay calm and make better choices.

Let us learn

1. Practice vs Practise (British English use)

• practice (noun): the act or habit. Example: Daily yoga practice helps health.
• practise (verb): to do repeatedly. Example: I practise breathing every morning.

Fill in the blanks:

1. It is important to have a regular practice of stretching every morning to stay flexible.
2. I practise yoga every day to keep my mind and body healthy.
3. The teacher said, you can join the school hockey team but it requires a lot of practice to improve your skills.
4. Our athletics coach asked us to practise running on grass to strengthen our grip while running.
5. I practise deep breathing exercises when I feel stressed to calm myself down.
6. Developing a good habit of eating fruits and vegetables should be a daily practice.

2. Advice vs Advise

• advice (noun): suggestion for help. Example: My teacher gave me good advice.
• advise (verb): to suggest. Example: Doctors advise daily exercise.

Model sentences:

• Grandfather’s advice about sleep helped me focus in class.
• Coaches often advise students to drink water after practice.
• Her mother’s advice was to eat fresh fruits daily.
• Teachers advise children to be regular with homework.

Let us listen

Listen to a student speaking about practising yoga with a grandparent. Then mark true statements.

Statement	T / F
The student sees people in the park doing breathing exercises.	T
Grandfather started yoga only a few years ago.	F
The student practises simple yoga with grandfather.	T
Breathing practice helps the student feel calm and focused.	T
Grandfather is unhealthy due to poor eating.	F
The student plans to learn asanas during holidays.	T

Let us speak

Share your “yoga thoughts” in pairs or groups of four.

If you have tried yoga

• I practise yoga because it makes me feel calm.
• My favourite thing about yoga is deep breathing.
• I feel relaxed after a yoga session because I focus on my breath.
• I want to practise Tree Pose because it improves balance.

If you have not tried yoga yet

• I wish to practise yoga to become more flexible.
• I hope that once I begin, I will sleep better.
• I want to try easy asanas because they are safe to start with.

Let us write

Write a short paragraph on “The Benefits of Yoga”. Use the sentence starters.

Sample Paragraph

Yoga is important because it joins the mind and body and helps us live in balance. One benefit of yoga that interests me is better sleep, because breathing slowly makes me calm. A popular yoga pose is the Mountain Pose because it teaches good posture. Yoga is not just physical exercise; it also teaches focus and patience. Finally, yoga can be a great way to stay healthy and happy every day.

Write your own:

• Why is yoga important for you?
• Which pose or breathing do you like and why?
• How does yoga help in school or at home?

Class 6 Poorvi Poem The Winner by Georgia Heard Complete NCERT Solution

Solutions for "The Winner" by Georgia Heard

"The Winner" by Georgia Heard is a simple yet beautiful poem that captures the pure joy of children playing outdoors in the evening. It describes their energy and excitement, and how the arrival of night naturally brings their game to an end. The poem helps us see the beauty in everyday moments and the natural rhythm of day and night.

Table of Contents

• 1. The Poem: The Winner
• 2. Let us discuss
• 3. Let us think and reflect
• 4. Let us learn
• 5. Let us listen
• 6. Let us speak
• 7. Let us write

The Poem: The Winner

Evenings,
we play ball
next to the creek
in our neighbour’s field.

We run so fast
I
can’t
even
catch
my
breath.

When blue dark turns to black,
cold grass aches our feet,
trees creep close—
game’s over.

Night wins!

Let us discuss

I. Read the given lines from the poem. Write the meaning of the lines by identifying the words/expressions in them.

Lines from the poem	Meaning
next to the creek	Beside a small stream of water.
I can't even catch my breath	Feeling breathless from running very fast.
When blue dark turns to black	The time when evening turns into night.
trees creep close	In the darkness, the trees seem to be moving nearer.

II. Read the poem. Complete the following based on the poem.

The children play ball in the neighbour's field. They run so fast that they run out of breath. They continue to play till the evening when the blue sky turns black and the trees are not clearly visible. They can feel their feet ache now that it is cold. Finally, they stop playing and go home as it is night.

Let us think and reflect

I. Read the given lines and answer the questions that follow.

1. We run so fast / I / can't / even / catch / my / breath.

• (i) Complete the sentence: The speaker needs to catch her breath because C. running fast results in being breathless.
• (ii) Is the speaker alone? Why do you say so? No, the speaker is not alone. The poem uses the word "we," which means more than one person is playing.
• (iii) What does the pattern in the lines tell us? The way the lines are broken into short, quick words mimics the feeling of being out of breath.

2. When blue dark turns to black, / cold grass aches our feet, / trees creep close— / game’s over. / Night wins!

• (i) Give one reason why the grass is cold. The grass is cold because the sun has set and the night has begun.
• (ii) Complete the sentence suitably: The children's feet are aching because the cold grass makes them hurt.
• (iii) Why does ‘Night' win? Night wins because A. the time for play has ended.

Let us learn

1. Poetic Devices in 'The Winner':

• Pattern: The short lines "I / can't / even / catch / my / breath" create a pattern that shows how the speaker is breathing heavily.
• Personification: Giving human qualities to things that are not human. In the poem, "Night wins!" gives the night the human ability to win a game.

2. Water Bodies Word Web:

A creek is a type of water body. Here are some others:

River Pond Lake Stream Ocean

Let us listen

Listen to the riddles and write which sport is being referred to in the table below.

Riddle	Sport
1	Football
2	Kho-Kho
3	Swimming
4	Yoga

Let us speak

Enact the roles of a parent and a child in these situations:

• Situation 1: Coming home late after play.
  Child: "Sorry, Mom, I didn't see it was so late! We were having so much fun."
  Parent: "I was worried. Please be sure to come home on time tomorrow."
• Situation 2: Sharing details of the games you played.
  Child: "Dad, you won't believe it! I scored a goal today in football!"
  Parent: "That's fantastic! Tell me all about it. How did you do it?"
• Situation 3: Bringing a new friend home after playtime.
  Child: "Mom, this is my new friend, Rohan. We played cricket together."
  Parent: "Hello, Rohan! It's a pleasure to meet you. Would you like some juice?"

Let us write

Write a paragraph about your playtime.

My Evening Playtime

Every evening at 5 PM, I go to the park near my house to play with my friends, Aman and Priya. We love playing hide-and-seek and football. My favourite game is football because I love running and scoring goals. Playing with my friends makes me feel very happy and full of energy. We gain teamwork and friendship from these games. We play until the streetlights turn on, which is our signal that it's time to finish and go home.

The Wild Swans at Coole — Complete Guide (NCERT Solution | Class 12 Elective English | Kaleidoscope)

This guide is a simple, exam-ready tutorial on The Wild Swans at Coole by W. B. Yeats. It follows the CBSE pattern for Class 12 Elective English (Kaleidoscope). You will find a summary, theme, word meanings, line-by-line help, NCERT Solution-style Q&A, extract-based MCQs, and important questions for practice. The aim is clear, quick learning.

Table of Contents

1. Post Excerpt
2. Quick Facts about the Poem & Poet
3. Summary of “The Wild Swans at Coole” by W. B. Yeats
4. Theme of “The Wild Swans at Coole” by W. B. Yeats
5. Stanza-wise Explanation (Simple Notes)
6. Line-by-line Explanation (Easy Gloss)
7. Word Meaning (Table)
8. Literary & Poetic Devices
9. Form, Rhyme Scheme & Tone
10. Imagery, Symbolism & Motifs
11. Questions and Answers (NCERT-style)
12. Extract Based MCQs (5 Sets)
13. Important Questions with Answers
14. Exam Tips & How to Answer
15. Vocabulary Boost & Usage
16. Practice Set (Short & Very Short)
17. Answer Frames & Templates
18. Quick Recap (One-page Notes)
19. FAQs for Class 12 Poetry (Kaleidoscope)
20. About the Poet & References

Post Excerpt

The Wild Swans at Coole by W. B. Yeats is a prescribed poem in Kaleidoscope, Class 12 Elective English. It is part of the NCERT syllabus and is often asked in exams. This post provides a complete NCERT Solution including summary, explanation, theme, stanza-wise notes, and exam-style questions with answers. Students preparing for Class 12 Poetry will find it useful for revision and practice. The focus is to explain the poem in simple words so that even difficult ideas about ageing, love, and change can be understood easily. Along with line-by-line explanation, you will also get word meanings, extract-based MCQs, and important questions that are likely to come in the examination. This will help you prepare well and score better in Class 12 Elective English.

Quick Facts about the Poem & Poet

• Poem: The Wild Swans at Coole
• Poet: William Butler Yeats (1865–1939)
• Year of Publication: 1919
• Collection: The Wild Swans at Coole
• Setting: Coole Park, Ireland
• Main Idea: Yeats contrasts his own ageing and sadness with the beauty and timeless energy of the swans.
• Exam Weightage: Important for Class 12 Elective English, both short and long answer questions are often set from this poem.

Summary of “The Wild Swans at Coole” by W. B. Yeats

The poem The Wild Swans at Coole by W. B. Yeats captures the poet’s feelings of change and loss as he observes swans at Coole Park. It is autumn, and the trees and sky reflect the calm of nature. The poet counts fifty-nine swans, the same birds he had first seen nineteen years earlier. At that time, they flew suddenly into the air, full of energy and freedom. The poet feels sad because his own life has changed since then. He has grown older, and his heart feels heavy. But the swans remain strong, youthful, and full of passion. They stay in pairs, unwearied, whether on water or in the sky. Yeats admires their beauty and constancy, but also fears the day when he may wake up to find them gone. The poem reflects on human ageing and change, set against the timeless beauty and freedom of nature.

Theme of “The Wild Swans at Coole” by W. B. Yeats

The main theme of The Wild Swans at Coole by W. B. Yeats is the contrast between human life and the timeless beauty of nature. Yeats shows how people grow old, face change, and lose energy, while the swans remain youthful, strong, and full of passion. The poem speaks about ageing, loss, and sadness, but also highlights constancy, companionship, and beauty. The swans stand as a symbol of love, freedom, and eternal spirit. Yeats feels the pain of change in his own life, but he also admires the swans for their unchanging strength and their power to inspire delight. Thus, the poem deals with human weakness on one side and the everlasting charm of nature on the other.

Stanza-wise Explanation (Simple Notes)

Stanza 1

The poet describes the scene of Coole Park in autumn. The trees are colourful, the paths are dry, and the calm water reflects the twilight sky. On the water, the poet sees fifty-nine swans resting together.

Stanza 2

Yeats recalls that it has been nineteen years since he first counted these swans. Back then, as soon as he saw them, they suddenly rose into the sky, flying in wide circles with noisy wings. This memory shows their energy and freedom.

Stanza 3

The poet says he has always admired these beautiful creatures, but now he feels sorrow. Time has changed him since the first time he heard their wings at twilight. In those days, he was younger and happier.

Stanza 4

The swans, however, remain unchanged. They are still full of life. Moving in pairs, they swim in the cold water or fly in the air. They do not grow old and are always guided by passion and energy.

Stanza 5

The poet reflects that the swans now float peacefully on the water, looking mysterious and beautiful. He wonders where they will go next to build nests or bring joy to new people. He fears waking up one day to find that they have flown away.

Line-by-line Explanation (Easy Gloss)

Stanza 1

The trees are in their autumn beauty, – The poet notices the trees filled with autumn colours.
The woodland paths are dry, – The forest paths are dry as the season has changed.
Under the October twilight the water / Mirrors a still sky; – The calm water reflects the quiet evening sky of October.
Upon the brimming water among the stones / Are nine-and-fifty swans. – On the full water near stones, the poet counts fifty-nine swans.

Stanza 2

The nineteenth autumn has come upon me / Since I first made my count; – It has been nineteen years since the poet first counted the swans.
I saw, before I had well finished, / All suddenly mount – Before he could finish counting, the swans rose into the air.
And scatter wheeling in great broken rings / Upon their clamorous wings. – They flew around in large circles, making loud sounds with their wings.

Stanza 3

I have looked upon those brilliant creatures, / And now my heart is sore. – The poet admired the swans, but now he feels pain and sadness.
All’s changed since I, hearing at twilight, / The first time on this shore, – Everything has changed since the first time he heard their wings at this place.
The bell-beat of their wings above my head, / Trod with a lighter tread. – Back then, hearing their wingbeats made him feel young and cheerful.

Stanza 4

Unwearied still, lover by lover, / They paddle in the cold – The swans are still tireless and swim in pairs in the cold water.
Companionable streams or climb the air; – They move together in streams or rise into the sky.
Their hearts have not grown old; – They remain full of youth and energy.
Passion or conquest, wander where they will, / Attend upon them still. – Wherever they go, they carry passion, love, and the spirit of adventure.

Stanza 5

But now they drift on the still water, / Mysterious, beautiful; – At present, they float calmly, looking beautiful and mysterious.
Among what rushes will they build, / By what lake’s edge or pool – The poet wonders where they will settle next, by which lake or stream.
Delight men’s eyes when I awake some day / To find they have flown away? – He fears that one day he will wake up to find the swans gone, bringing joy to other people elsewhere.

Word Meaning (Table)

Word Meaning — The Wild Swans at Coole

Word / Phrase	Meaning (Simple)
autumn beauty	lovely colours and look of trees in autumn
woodland	area covered with trees; a small forest
twilight	soft light after sunset or before sunrise
mirrors	reflects like a mirror
brimming	full to the top
nine-and-fifty	fifty-nine (59)
mount (verb)	rise up; take off into the air
scatter	move apart in many directions
wheeling	flying or turning in circles
(broken) rings	not perfect circles; shifting loops in the sky
clamorous	loud; noisy
brilliant creatures	very bright and beautiful birds
sore (heart is sore)	painful; full of sadness
bell-beat (of wings)	steady, ringing rhythm like a bell
trod	walked
lighter tread	walked with a light, happy step
unwearied	not tired; full of energy
lover by lover	in pairs like mates
paddle	move the feet in water to swim
companionable	friendly; easy to be with
climb the air	rise high while flying
hearts have not grown old	spirit is still young
passion	strong feeling of love or desire
conquest	winning; victory; triumph
wander	move about without a fixed path
attend upon	follow; go with
drift	float slowly with the water
rushes	tall grass-like plants near water
pool	small body of still water
delight	great joy or pleasure
flown away	gone by flying; left the place

Literary & Poetic Devices in The Wild Swans at Coole 

W. B. Yeats uses many poetic devices in this poem. These devices give rhythm, beauty, and deeper meaning to his words. Here are the main ones:

1. Imagery

The poem is full of visual pictures such as “trees are in their autumn beauty”, “October twilight”, and “nine-and-fifty swans”. These images help us see and feel the scene at Coole Park.

2. Symbolism

The swans symbolise youth, love, passion, and eternity. They stand for all that is strong and unchanged, unlike human life which ages and weakens.

3. Alliteration

The sound of letters is repeated to create music, for example, “bell-beat of their wings” and “brimming water among the stones”.

4. Repetition

The word “still” is repeated to show the calmness of water and the unchanging nature of the swans.

5. Personification

Human qualities are given to the swans. Their “hearts have not grown old” and they are described as being “unwearied” and “lover by lover”.

6. Metaphor

The “bell-beat of their wings” compares the steady rhythm of wings to the ringing of a bell, without using “like” or “as”.

7. Contrast

A strong contrast is drawn between the poet’s ageing life and the ageless beauty of the swans. This deepens the sorrowful tone of the poem.

8. Tone

The tone shifts from admiration to sadness. At first, the poet praises the swans, but later he expresses his fear of loss and loneliness.

9. Rhyme Scheme

The poem follows a regular rhyme scheme of ababcc in each stanza. This gives balance and order to the verses.

Form, Rhyme Scheme & Tone of The Wild Swans at Coole

Form

The poem is written in five stanzas, each having six lines. This type of stanza is called a sexain. Yeats uses a simple and balanced structure. The form allows him to move from description of nature to personal reflection.

Rhyme Scheme

Each stanza follows the rhyme scheme ababcc. The first and third lines rhyme, the second and fourth rhyme, and the last two lines form a rhyming couplet. This gives the poem a steady rhythm and a musical flow.

Tone

The tone is calm, reflective, and sorrowful. At first, the poet admires the beauty of autumn and the swans. Soon the tone turns wistful and sad as he feels the changes brought by age and the passing of time. The contrast between the unchanging swans and his own ageing life adds a touch of melancholy.

Imagery, Symbolism & Motifs in The Wild Swans at Coole

Imagery

Yeats uses strong pictures to bring the scene alive. The autumn trees, October twilight, and still sky give us a clear sense of season and mood. The swans flying in “great broken rings” and the sound of the “bell-beat of their wings” create visual and auditory images. These images make the poem rich and memorable.

Symbolism

The swans are a central symbol. They stand for youth, love, passion, and eternity. While human life changes with age and loss, the swans remain constant and full of energy. The autumn season symbolises decline and ageing, contrasting with the vitality of the swans. The still water reflects both peace and the silence of time passing.

Motifs

The repeated ideas or motifs in the poem include time, ageing, love, and change. The poet’s nineteen-year gap since first seeing the swans shows the passing of time. His sadness at growing old contrasts with the ageless swans. The motif of pairs of swans highlights companionship and lasting love. Another motif is the fear of loss — the worry that one day the swans will fly away forever.

Questions and Answers (NCERT-style)

Understanding the Poem

Q1. How do the ‘trees in their autumn beauty’, ‘dry woodland paths’, ‘October twilight’, ‘still sky’ connect to the poet’s own life?

These images of autumn reflect decline and fading life. They connect to the poet’s own ageing and sense of loss. Just as nature moves into autumn, Yeats feels he has entered the later stage of his life.

Q2. What do ‘the light tread’ and ‘the sore heart’ refer to?

‘The light tread’ refers to the poet’s youthful days when he was carefree and joyful. ‘The sore heart’ refers to his present state of sadness and pain as he feels the burden of age and change.

Q3. What is the contrast between the liveliness of the swans and human life?

The swans remain young, tireless, and full of passion, while human life grows weak, old, and sorrowful with time. Yeats shows how the swans stay the same, but humans cannot escape change and ageing.

Q4. What contributes to the beauty and mystery of the swans’ lives?

The swans live in pairs, move gracefully on water, and rise freely into the air. Their constancy, strength, and freedom make them mysterious and beautiful, unlike the fragile human life bound by time.

Extract Based MCQs (5 Sets)

Extract Based MCQs

Set 1

“The trees are in their autumn beauty, The woodland paths are dry, Under the October twilight the water Mirrors a still sky.”

1. Which season is described in the lines?
   a) Summer
   b) Autumn
   c) Winter
   d) Spring
2. What does the “still sky” reflect?
   a) The poet’s joy
   b) The poet’s calm mood
   c) The water’s calmness
   d) The swans’ movement
3. The tone in these lines is—
   a) Energetic
   b) Sad
   c) Peaceful
   d) Angry

Answer Key: 1-b, 2-c, 3-c

Set 2

“Upon the brimming water among the stones Are nine-and-fifty swans.”

1. How many swans does the poet count?
   a) 59
   b) 60
   c) 49
   d) 50
2. Where are the swans seen?
   a) In the air
   b) On the still water
   c) On dry paths
   d) Near the twilight sky
3. The word “brimming” suggests—
   a) Fullness
   b) Emptiness
   c) Shallow water
   d) Movement

Answer Key: 1-a, 2-b, 3-a

Set 3

“All’s changed since I, hearing at twilight, The first time on this shore, The bell-beat of their wings above my head, Trod with a lighter tread.”

1. What has changed according to the poet?
   a) His love for nature
   b) His feelings and life
   c) The number of swans
   d) The lake itself
2. What does “lighter tread” mean?
   a) Weak steps
   b) Joyful and carefree walk
   c) Strong steps
   d) Fearful walk
3. The phrase “bell-beat of their wings” is an example of—
   a) Metaphor
   b) Simile
   c) Personification
   d) Alliteration

Answer Key: 1-b, 2-b, 3-a

Set 4

“Unwearied still, lover by lover, They paddle in the cold Companionable streams or climb the air; Their hearts have not grown old.”

1. What does “unwearied” suggest about the swans?
   a) They are tired
   b) They remain energetic
   c) They are weak
   d) They are resting
2. How do the swans move?
   a) Alone
   b) In pairs
   c) In groups of three
   d) Without order
3. What quality of the swans is highlighted in “their hearts have not grown old”?
   a) Constancy
   b) Weakness
   c) Change
   d) Silence

Answer Key: 1-b, 2-b, 3-a

Set 5

“Delight men’s eyes when I awake some day To find they have flown away?”

1. What does the poet fear here?
   a) He will not see swans again
   b) The swans will live forever
   c) He will forget the lake
   d) The lake will dry up
2. What do the swans bring to others?
   a) Fear
   b) Delight
   c) Anger
   d) Sadness
3. The tone in these lines is—
   a) Hopeful
   b) Doubtful
   c) Fearful and sad
   d) Playful

Answer Key: 1-a, 2-b, 3-c

Important Questions with Answers

Short Answer Questions (30–40 words)

Q1. Why does Yeats feel sorrow when he sees the swans?

Yeats feels sorrow because he has grown old and changed, while the swans remain youthful, full of passion, and unchanged. Their permanence reminds him of his own ageing and the loss of joy in his life.

Q2. How does Yeats contrast the swans with human life?

Swans are tireless, constant, and full of love and energy. Human life, on the other hand, changes with time, age, and loss. This contrast brings out the sadness Yeats feels about human weakness.

Q3. Why does the poet fear waking up one day to find the swans gone?

For Yeats, the swans symbolise beauty, love, and constancy. If they disappear, he will lose the last source of joy and stability in his life. His fear shows his deep sense of emptiness.

Long Answer Questions (120–150 words)

Q4. Discuss the use of imagery in “The Wild Swans at Coole”.

Yeats paints the scene with rich visual and sound images. He describes the autumn trees, dry woodland paths, and still sky, creating a quiet, reflective mood. The swans are shown through the image of “great broken rings” as they fly and the “bell-beat of their wings” as they rise. These images contrast the calm setting with the energy of the swans. The imagery not only brings the scene alive but also reflects the poet’s emotions—his sorrow, nostalgia, and awe. It helps readers see the contrast between the changing human life and the unchanging swans.

Q5. How does the poem reflect Yeats’s personal concerns?

The poem reflects Yeats’s struggle with ageing, loss, and the search for permanence. The nineteen years since he first saw the swans remind him of how time has changed him. He is no longer youthful or carefree, but full of sorrow and weariness. The swans, however, remain unchanged—strong, passionate, and graceful. Yeats’s fear of their disappearance reflects his fear of losing beauty and joy forever. Thus, the poem mirrors his personal longing for constancy in a world of change.

Value-based Question

Q6. What lesson about life can young readers learn from “The Wild Swans at Coole”?

The poem teaches that human life is bound by time and change, but beauty and love can be lasting. It reminds readers to cherish moments of joy and value the constancy of nature. It also suggests that youth and passion can be an inspiration even when life becomes difficult.

Exam Tips & How to Answer

1. Use of Keywords

Always include important keywords in your answers such as: autumn, twilight, sore heart, unwearied swans, passion, constancy, ageing, change. These words show that you understand the poem and its central ideas.

2. Quoting Lines

Support your answers with short quotes from the text. For example: • To show Yeats’s sadness, you can quote “my heart is sore.” • To explain the energy of swans, use “unwearied still, lover by lover.” Do not write long lines. Use only a few words and fit them into your own sentence.

3. Time Planning

• Reading time: Spend 2–3 minutes reading the question carefully.
• Short answers: Keep them 25–40 words. Spend 3–4 minutes on each.
• Long answers: Write 120–150 words. Use 7–9 minutes for each. Begin with an introduction, explain with examples, and close with a clear conclusion.
• Revision: Save 5 minutes at the end to read and correct mistakes.

4. Structuring Answers

• Begin with a clear point. • Explain using simple language. • Add a short quote for support. • End with a link to the theme of the poem. This method keeps your answer neat and examiners find it easy to mark.

5. Common Pitfalls

• Do not memorise answers blindly. Focus on ideas and key points.
• Avoid writing long quotes. Only use short phrases.
• Do not skip the conclusion in long answers.
• Avoid vague words like “nice”, “good”, “bad”. Use exact terms like “imagery”, “symbol”, “tone”.

Vocabulary Boost & Usage

Here are some useful words from The Wild Swans at Coole with simple sample sentences to help you in exams and writing tasks.

Word	Meaning	Sample Sentence
Autumn	Season between summer and winter	The trees turn golden in autumn.
Twilight	Soft light just before night	We went for a walk in the twilight.
Clamorous	Loud and noisy	The clamorous crowd cheered the players.
Unwearied	Not tired	She remained unwearied even after a long walk.
Companionable	Friendly and sociable	He enjoyed the companionable company of his classmates.
Conquest	The act of winning or gaining	The king celebrated his conquest of new lands.
Passion	Strong emotion or love	She spoke about the project with great passion.
Mystery	Something difficult to explain	The old house was full of mystery.
Delight	Great pleasure or joy	The children screamed in delight when the gifts arrived.
Sore	Painful or aching	His sore leg made it hard to walk.
Constancy	Quality of being unchanging	The constancy of the stars comforts many poets.

Practice Set (Short & Very Short)

Very Short Answer Questions (1 mark each)

1. How many swans does the poet see at Coole Park?
2. What season is described at the beginning of the poem?
3. How long has it been since Yeats first counted the swans?
4. Which sound does Yeats compare to a “bell-beat”?
5. What fear does the poet express at the end of the poem?

Short Answer Questions (2–3 marks each)

1. What is the mood of the poet in the opening stanza? Support your answer with one image.
2. Why does Yeats feel his heart has grown sore while the swans remain unwearied?
3. How does Yeats present the swans as symbols of love and companionship?
4. Explain how nature adds to the beauty and mystery of the swans’ presence.
5. What contrast does Yeats draw between the constancy of the swans and the changes in human life?

Answer Frames & Templates

These frames will help you shape answers in exams. Fill in the blanks with details from the poem.

1. Theme-based Answer Frame

The main theme of the poem “The Wild Swans at Coole” is ___________. Yeats shows that while human life ___________, the swans remain ___________. The poet uses the image of ___________ to express his feelings of ___________. Thus, the theme reflects ___________.

2. Imagery-based Answer Frame

Yeats makes use of striking imagery in the poem. For example, he describes ___________ which creates a picture of ___________. Another image is ___________ that symbolises ___________. These images help readers feel ___________ and highlight the contrast between ___________.

3. Symbolism-based Answer Frame

In the poem, the swans symbolise ___________. Their constancy represents ___________, while their passion shows ___________. Yeats contrasts this symbol with ___________ to underline ___________. Thus, symbolism strengthens the central message of the poem.

4. Poetic Device-based Answer Frame

Yeats uses the device of ___________ in the line “___________”. This device helps to ___________. Another device is ___________ in “___________”, which adds ___________. Together, these poetic devices make the poem more ___________ and effective.

5. Value-based Answer Frame

The poem teaches us the value of ___________. Through the swans, Yeats conveys that ___________, whereas human life ___________. The reader learns that even in times of ___________, one can find inspiration in ___________.

Quick Recap (One-page Notes)

• Poem: The Wild Swans at Coole by W. B. Yeats
• Setting: Coole Park, Ireland, in autumn at twilight
• Swans: 59 swans (nine-and-fifty)
• Time Gap: Nineteen years since Yeats first saw the swans
• Poet’s Mood: Sad, reflective, feels the change of age
• Contrast: Poet is ageing and weary; swans remain young and full of energy
• Key Symbols:
  • Swans → permanence, passion, constancy
  • Autumn → ageing, decline, change
  • Twilight → end of a phase, nearing death
• Main Theme: The contrast between fleeting human life and the timeless beauty of nature
• Tone: Reflective, sorrowful, yet admiring of the swans
• Important Lines to Quote:
  • “My heart is sore” → poet’s sadness
  • “Unwearied still, lover by lover” → swans’ constancy
  • “Delight men’s eyes” → timeless charm of swans
• Poetic Devices: Imagery, symbolism, alliteration, repetition
• Exam Tip: Always show contrast between poet’s ageing and swans’ timelessness

FAQs for Class 12 Poetry (Kaleidoscope)

1. What is the central idea of “The Wild Swans at Coole”?

The poem shows Yeats’s sadness at growing old while the swans remain youthful, lively, and constant.

2. Why are the swans important in the poem?

The swans symbolise love, constancy, and timeless beauty. They contrast with human life, which changes with age.

3. What feelings does Yeats express in the poem?

He feels sorrow, loss, and nostalgia, but also admiration for the swans’ vitality.

4. What is the rhyme scheme of the poem?

The poem follows a regular rhyme scheme of ababcc in each stanza.

5. How does nature contribute to the poem’s mood?

The autumn trees, twilight sky, and still water create a calm but sad background that mirrors Yeats’s feelings.

6. What does “my heart is sore” mean?

It means the poet feels deep sadness and emotional pain.

7. Why does Yeats fear the swans may fly away?

He worries that one day they may leave, and he will lose the only constant source of beauty in his life.

8. How should I write answers in the exam?

Use key words like “symbolism”, “contrast”, and “constancy”. Quote short lines to support your points.

9. What literary devices are important to mention?

Imagery, symbolism, repetition, and alliteration are most important.

10. What lesson can we learn from the poem?

The poem teaches us to accept change in life but also to admire the timeless beauty of nature.

About the Poet & References

About W. B. Yeats

William Butler Yeats (1865–1939) was an Irish poet, playwright, and one of the greatest literary figures of the 20th century. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1923. Yeats was deeply influenced by Irish mythology, folklore, and the nationalist movement. His works often blend personal emotions with larger cultural and political themes. The Wild Swans at Coole, written in 1916 and published in 1919, reflects his feelings of ageing and loss, set against the timeless beauty of nature.

References

• NCERT, Kaleidoscope: Elective English for Class XII, Poetry Section
• Yeats, W. B. The Wild Swans at Coole (1919)
• Oxford Dictionary of Literary Terms
• Critical essays and notes on Yeats’s poetry (public domain sources)