Department of English
Govt. Degree College Anantnag
Gen. English notes for B.A, B.S.C. and B.COM. 3rd Semester 2016
SECTION 1: POETRY
LUCY GRAY
By William Wordsworth
Briefly answer the following questions:
A. Identify the lines which first tell us that Lucy Gray is no more. Explain why
the poet refrains from giving us this information at the very outset?
Ans. The lines found in the eleventh stanza for the first time suggest that Lucy
Gray is no more:
They wept-and, turning homeward, cried,
“In heaven we all shall meet;”
The poet refrains from giving us this information of Lucy’s death directly
with the purpose of building up his story with greater degree of pathos. Moreover,
it is generally believed that the theme of the poem is not Lucy Gray’s death but
human being’s merger with nature. This greater theme of the union of human
beings and nature is successfully presented through the character of Lucy. He gives
a brief account of the girl living a playful and solitary life.
B. Sketch a picture of the countryside that you infer from your reading of the
poem.
Ans. The poem ‘Lucy Gray’ gives a detailed account of the countryside where
Lucy lived. It is a secluded place far from the hustle and bustle of life. The people
live an isolated life and strong winds and snow storms are a routine there. Snowy
mountains, steep hills, hedges, rivulets etc. are a part of it. It is a place where moon
is visible even in the daytime.
C. “The wretched parents all that night/ Went shouting far and wide…”
explains the ambiguity in the phrase ‘wretched parents’. How does it impact
the interpretation of the poem?
Ans. Lucy Gray had been told by her father to fetch her mother from the town
before the snow storm would hit the region. But the storm which was likely to
come in the evening came very early and devoured Lucy. Now the grief stricken
parents search frantically for her but in vain. The ambiguity in the phrase
‘wretched parents’ is that although Lucy’ parents now looked helpless and
wretched after her disappearance, but in reality it was her father who despite
knowing that the area would be hit by a storm asked her to fetch her mother, thus
proving himself a mean and careless father. Their search and wailing not only
gives a vivid and graphic description of the countryside but also gives a pathetic
and gloomy touch to the story.
Give detailed answers to the following questions:
A. Sketch the character of Lucy Gray from your reading of the poem. What
according to you was her most endearing trait and why?
Ans. Lucy Gray was an extremely sweet and beautiful child who lived a solitary
life in the joyful company of nature. She lived with her parents in a cottage and had
no siblings or friends to play or share with.
Wordsworth in the poem tells the popular story of Lucy gray which he heard
from his sister. One eventful day Lucy’ father asked her to bring her mother back
home from the town before the snowstorm hits the region. As Lucy was a very
obedient girl, she gleefully obliged. Lucy hurriedly left for the town with a lantern
in her hand. The storm which was expected to occur in the night came much earlier
and Lucy was overtaken by it. The unfortunate child tried very hard to find the way
back home but failed miserably. After reading the poem it can be easily found that
Lucy was a very submissive and beautiful child who enjoyed the solitude of nature.
She became friends with the solitary surroundings of nature and used to play with
it happily. She never complained about her being alone, instead of her seclusion.
According to me submissiveness and obedience is the most endearing trait of
Lucy. She would carry out all the orders of her parents. When her father asked her
to bring her mother back from the town, she risked her life and went to fetch her
mother in spite of the inclement weather and in the pursuit perish.
B. In 1815, Wordsworth added the subtitle ‘or Solitude’ to the poem. Does the
subtitle help or limit one’s reading of the poem. Give a reasoned answer.
Ans. ‘Lucy Gray’ is one of the best ballads written by the great English romantic
poet, William Wordsworth, the poet of nature. It was published in the second
edition of the “Lyrical Ballads” and its story was narrated to the poet by his sister
Dorothy. Although, the poem tells the story of Lucy’s disappearance in a snow
storm, the poem at the same time gives a vivid and graphic description of the
natural scenery of the area.
Although written years before being published in the second edition of the
Lyrical Ballads, Wordsworth added the subtitle ‘or Solitude’ to it in 1815. The
subtitle helps a reader to comprehend the poem in a much better way and gives him
a peep into the main theme of the poem. More than the death account of Lucy, the
poem basically deals with the theme of solitariness of a girl living in a secluded
place far away from the town and town people.
The subtitle suggests that Lucy Gray who lived on a moor with her parents
had a solitary life. She had no friends and comrades to play with. She was a very
submissive and beautiful child who enjoyed the solitude of nature. She became
friends with the solitary surroundings of nature and used to play with it happily.
She never complained about her being alone, instead of her seclusion. Lucy is the
child of nature and it is said that even after her death, her spirit still freely roams in
the forest and sings the song of solitude.
THE WORLD IS TOO MUCH WITH US
By William Wordsworth
Briefly answer the following questions:
A. Why does the speaker express his resentment against the life of
materialism?
Ans. ‘The World Is Too Much’ is a beautiful sonnet written by William
Wordsworth. In the poem Wordsworth laments modern man’s obsession of
accumulation of money and material. In the pursuit of material gains he has lost the
spirituality and love for nature. He measures everything in terms of money. He has
sold his heart for the petty means. He does not see the beauties and bounties of
nature but his heart and mind has become polluted due to mad desire for money.
B. What do ‘getting and spending’, ‘a sordid boon’ and ‘sleeping flowers’
signify in the context of the poem?
Ans. These phrases signify modern man’s materialism and greed for money. He
measures everything in terms of money and the objects of nature seem dead to him.
‘Getting and spending’ shows how modern man has entered into the rat race of
accumulating more and more wealth and then spending it lavishly. The phrase
‘sordid boon’ stands for shameful blessing. According to the poet modern man has
shamelessly given away his heart to money and material comforts. Like Dr Faustus
they have sold their hearts for petty material gains. Modern man is spiritually dead
and does not derive joy from nature. To him money is everything. The phrase
‘sleeping flowers’ suggest the tremendous power of nature. The natural objects like
the sea, moon and howling winds have the potential to sooth the human spirit.
C. What are the ‘glimpses’ that could make the speaker ‘less forlorn’?
Ans. Wordsworth’s poem ‘The World Is Too Much’ is a scathing attack on modern
man’s love for material and wealth. To earn more and more and to live a
comfortable and luxurious life is his sole preoccupation. Wordsworth is
disillusioned and feels himself detached from such people. He is a high priest of
nature and wants to enjoy the company of nature. For this purpose he wants to
stand on a meadow and have glimpse of ancient Greek sea gods Proteus and
Triton. These glimpses have the potential to make him less forlorn and can remove
the load off his breast and have a soothing effect on him.
D. Why do you think the speaker wishes to be a pagan?
Ans. The speaker is disillusioned and feels himself detached from the people who
have materialistic pursuits and whose only goal is to accumulate more and more
wealth. He wants to enjoy the company of nature and have glimpses of ancient
Greek gods Proteus and Triton. For this purpose he wants to shun the orthodox
religion and become a pagan. As the speaker is a high priest of nature so he thinks
that by adapting paganism he would always remain in the company of nature, as
pagans believe that god resides in every element of nature. By having the glimpses
of these ancient Greek gods would make him less forlorn.
Give detailed answers to the following questions:
A. Comment on the theme of the poem?
Ans:- The poem has a thematic concern of, “the beauty and significance of Nature”
and ,”a condemnation of the commercial spirit.” The poem opens with a complaint,
that the world is out of whack and the people are destroying themselves with
consumerism. The speaker describes a rift between nature and humanity. We are
fully absorbed in money and materialism that we no longer seem a part of nature.
Wordsworth was never tired of teaching his readers to love the beauty of Nature
and to try to understand the underlining significance of Nature. In this sonnet he
reminds us that Nature has a beauty and a significance which we should not miss.
The poem contains two beautiful Nature pictures. One is the picture of moonlight
falling freely on the surface of the sea.
‘This sea that bares her bosom to the moon.’
The other is the picture of the winds which are mostly blowing with force but
which are sometimes calm and peaceful like “sleeping flowers”
Wordsworth rightly condemns in this poem the excessive interest of people
in money. Today money rules and governs us. “Getting and spending” are really
our chief concern in life:
‘Getting and spending, we lay waste our powers.’
We feel too occupied in worldly activities. We are feverishly busy in
worldly affairs .But what is the use of all this if we allow our sense of beauty to
starve and die? The sense of beauty is a part of our higher nature and it should be
developed fully. Thus the poem has a valuable lesson for us. Wordsworth was in
the habit of teaching lessons through his poetry and this sonnet is an example of
that habit.
B. Why and how does Wordsworth look upon Nature as a power that exerts a
humanising influence on man?
Ans:- One impulse from a vernal wood
May teach you more of man,
Of moral evil and of good,
Than all the sages can.
Wordsworth’s philosophy of human life rests upon his basic conception that
man is not apart from Nature but is the very,” life of her life”. In childhood man is
sensitive to all natural influences; he is an epitome of the gladness and beauty of
the world. Wordsworth explains this gladness and this sensitiveness to Nature by
the doctrine that the child comes straight from the Creator of Nature. This kinship
with nature and with God, which glorifies childhood, ought to extend through a
man’s whole life and ennoble it. According to Wordsworth, society and the
crowded unnatural life of cities tend to weaken and pervert humanity; and a return
to a natural and simple living is the only remedy for human wretchedness.
Wordsworth was primarily concerned with the emotional, imaginative and
spiritual forces within the mind of man. His own revitalisation, the’’ impulses of
deeper birth’’, came to him in the country; Nature was the means, not the end. For
others, ‘’renovations’’ may come from religion or poetry or music; but in many the
vital force is renewed through ‘’ the beautiful and permanent forms of Nature’’.
However, the most important fallacy in Wordsworth’s Nature philosophy lies in
the assumption that all people are open to restorative natural influences which
inspire lofty thoughts and disclose the primal duties:
‘To me the meanest flower that blows can give
Thoughts that do often lie too deep for tears.’
FROST AT MIDNIGHT
By S.T. Coleridge
Answer the following questions briefly:
A. Explain briefly the line “The Frost performs its secret ministry”.
Ans: The above mentioned line has got a lot of significance in the poem. It shows
that the atmosphere is peaceful and calm. We notice that silence prevails all over
the place. It is cold outside, the time is evening and frost has covered the land. So,
the frost is doing its duty subtly and secretly. The wind is not there to help it.
B. Bring out the difference in the repetition of the words, ‘Sea, hill, and wood’
in lines 10-11.
Ans: Sea, hill and wood— the inhabitants of the village and the other activities
appear to be silent like the whole atmosphere. There is only a single moment which
the poet can see and it is the moment of the thin film fluttering on the grate. It is
not affected by the silence of the night. The difference in the repetition of these
words shows that these used to be once full of activity together and are now feeling
lonely like the poet in this chilly and silent atmosphere.
C. What does the poet see in ‘that film’? Explain the superstitious association
between the film and the stranger twice referred to in the second stanza.
Ans: The poet sees the movement in the film and it allows him to take refuge in his
past. He recollects the days when he was at school and the fluttering film was
signaling the arrival of some relative or friend next morning. When he would see
this film, he would get transported in his imagination to his sweet native place with
its old church tower.
D. what does the poet dream off? What is the effect of these dreams on him?
Ans: The poet gets pensive and gives poetic expression to all the common human
emotions. He dreams of his childhood days and the ringing of the church bells
which enthralled him from morning to evening. He remembers how sweetly they
stirred and haunted him with a wild pleasure and then consequently it would allow
him dream so many things. The stranger referred in the poem are the intuitions that
he would get by reflecting on ordinary things.
Give detailed answer to the following questions:
A. Discuss the tension created in the opening of the poem between the
serenity of nature and the restlessness of the poet.
Ans: The poem presents the reminiscences of the poet on a frosty night when he
was alone by the fireside. He feels himself alienated from the rest of the world.
His son, Hartley is peacefully sleeping in a cradle by his side. In the calmness of
the night, the poet becomes more and more meditative. The wind is not blowing
there and there is no one to disturb his meditation. Outside the sea, the wood, the
hill and the village appear to be quiet. So the poet feels restless as is evident from
the poem:
“… so calm, that it disturbs and vexes meditation with its strange and extreme
silentness…”
We can find the tension in the poem that is created by the calm of the nature and
restlessness of the poet. It is this tension which takes him to his childhood days of
city life. This also points towards Coleridge’s desire for his own childhood which
he could have spent in a countryside that he mentions in the poem. However, he
resolves that his son will live in these natural surroundings and will learn the
everlasting lessons from nature. This is in tune with the romantic belief that one
can be in full communion with eternal reality only in countryside environment as
was propagated by Wordsworth and Coleridge. So, the tension created by the by
the solitude and the restlessness of the poet proves fruitful in presenting the main
theme of the poem.
B. Bring out the contrast between Coleridge’s schooldays and the education
that his son will have. What does it tell us about the Romantic concept of
nature.
Ans: There is difference between Coleridge’s school days and the education that
his son will have in the countryside. This is because when the poet becomes
pensive while feeling the loneliness of the place, his mind leaves the cottage and
flies around the world. it discovers that the sea, hill and wood are all engulfed in
silence and a number of activities of life are at halt. He imagines his childhood
days when he was at school .he was not interested in the hectic class activities but
was enchanted by the ringing of the church bells. This filled him with immense joy
which stirred and haunted him. He was fed up with the city environment which
corrupts human nature and years that his son will study in the countryside under
the guidance of nature itself. This will enable him to perceive the eternal reality.
The Romantics believed that nature is redemptive in its effect and can lead a
person to supreme reality.
B. Write a critical analysis of the poem?
Ans: S. T. Coleridge is known as an acclaimed English poet, literary critic and
philosopher. In collaboration with William Wordsworth, he founded a literary
movement in England known as Romantic Movement. He is known for his best
poems like ‘The Aeolian Harp’, Fears in Solitude’ , ‘Reflections on having a place
of Retirement’ ‘Christabel’, Dejection : An Ode, An Ancient Mariner’. His poetry
shows intricate artistry and also reflects the variety of human thought. ‘Frost at
Midnight’, the poem under critical analysis here, is written in blank verse and it
shows and justifies the system of natural education as was propagated by
Rousseau, a well- known thinker and philosopher. In this poem, Coleridge shows
his concern for his son’s future and expresses a wish that he live a life which is
different from the life lived by the poet. He prays and yearns that his son, Hartley,
live a life in the countryside amidst the lakes and mountains which will bestow on
him the lessons of love, piety and spirituality. It is well-knit and intricately
structured poem and is deeply embedded in the romantic belief which
acknowledges the presence of a benevolent and all- pervading spirit in the
universe. It moves through time and space showing the thought processes of the
poet’s mind and variation in his mood in a sequence three stages. The first stage
shows the poets present situation in which he lives— his loneliness, depressed
sensibility and alienation from the world around him. In the second stage of his
poem, the poet recollects his unhappy, lonely past and his upbringing in a city
environment. However, the third stage is full of pessimism.
C. The crux of the poem is contained in the line: ‘Himself in all, and all
things in himself’. Comment.
Ans: These words in the poem have immense significance. They actually signify
the crux of Romanticism. We can understand the significance of these words at the
end of the play. The poet remembers that he was himself brought up in the
suffocating atmosphere of London. He thinks of an entirely different plan for the
upbringing of his son. He thinks that his son will grow up under the benevolent and
educative influence of Nature. The poet provides a pantheistic view of nature. It
believes that God is the supreme teacher of mankind and His presence can be felt
in everything that has been created. He is the source of everything and nature is the
great universal teacher that would mould the behavior of his son.
KUBLA KHAN
By S.T. Coleridge
Briefly answer the following questions
A. ‘Kubla Khan’ is filled with contrary images. Explai n the effect of these
in the first five lines.
Ans: Kubla Khan presents the complexity of life which is filled with mysteries and
contraries. It a poem about nature and the function of art. In the first five lines, a
picture full of complexities and contradiction is created. Kubla Khan orders to
build a majestic palace that symbolizes the sensual pleasure. There is a sacred river
which is symbol of life. It is replica of this life in the universe which begins and
ends in mystery touched with dread. It runs deep through caverns which are
measureless to man and go down to a sunless sea. So, in the very beginning, the
poet creates a picture full of contraries which is analogous to life.
B. Who is the Abyssinian maid? What does she signify for the poet?
Ans: It is an imaginary character created by the poet. He sees an Abyssinian maid
in his vision playing on her dulcimer and singing a sweet song about Mount Abora.
She signifies the perfection of art for the poet. The poet yearns to create the
perfection of Abyssinian maid’s song in his poetry. He wants to revive the melody
and music of her song. It would give him pleasure and inspire him to make a
palace of the same kind in the air. The palace would be so vivid that all who
would hear him would see the pleasure dome in front of their eyes.
C.How does the last stanza of the poem refer to artistic creativity as a sacred
activity? What does it mean to have been fed on ‘honey dew’ and ‘drunk the
milk of paradise’?
Ans: In the last section, the poet wants to achieve the Abyssinian maid’s perfection
in his art. He wants to be revolutionary in order to bring changes in the society.
The artistic creativity is a sacred one because it brings new ideas and new hopes in
the minds of men. His eyes would shine with unearthly light and would possess
magical powers. He thinks about the conservative people who would try to restrict
him by circling around him and close their eyes. The phrases “he had been fed on
honey dew” and “milk of paradise” mean that these people will regard him inspired
by God.
Give the detailed answer to the following questions:
A. Comment on the central idea of ‘Kubla Khan’.
Ans: The central idea of Kubla Khan is nature and function of art. Just like his
contemporaries he wanted to be revolutionary so that he could insert new ideas and
new hopes in the minds of people through art. We can categorize the poem in three
parts. The first part is about the palace about which he had heard and it is also
about a singer about whom he had a dream and lastly it is about the poet he had
imagined. The poem opens with the description of pleasure dome to be built in
Xanadu. The palace is surrounded by ten miles of rich soil and the whole area is
walled. It is followed by the singing of the Abyssinian maid which symbolizes the
perfection of art. In the third part, the poet years that if he would emulate the
oriental magnificence of Kubla Khan’s architectural structure through his art, if he
would revive the melody and music of Abyssinian maid’s song, his music would
then create the embodiment of mystery of God’s universe. It would be mystery of
contraries put together, the dichotomy of light and darkness; and life and death.
Such poetry will bring about a great change in a person’s mood and attitude. It can
be augur change and rebirth.
B. Comment on Kubla Khan as a dream poem. Explicate the relationship
between dreams and artistic creativity within the context of the poem.
Ans: Coleridge himself describes the poem as “A vision in a dream: A fragment”.
But the critics are of the view that if he had not told us so, no one would have
thought about it. The entire poem came to Coleridge on a morning when he had
fallen asleep while reading Purchase’s pilgrimage. When he woke up , he could
write only 54 lines after being interrupted by a visitor. The poem has vocabulary
and semantics that represents a dream like situation. It seems incoherent unless we
get the symbolic meaning. It is always described as a dream poem because it
acquits meaning only if taken as a dream. Then only different parts can be put
together and presented as an organic whole. There is a similarity between a dream
and artistic creation. The dream cannot be understood without symbolism and art
also depends up on symbolic connotations. The second part refers to his dream in
which he had a vision of Abyssinian maid and in the final part he years to recreate
the perfection of Abyssinian maid’s song. The reader finds it as a convincing
presentation.
C. Coleridge describes the poem as a fragment in the subtitle. Would you
agree or disagree with the poet that it is so. Give a reasoned answer.
Ans: Coleridge describes the poem as a fragment in the subtitle but it can never be
called an incoherent one. He himself calls it “A vision in a dream: A fragment”.
Even if the first part is interpreted symbolically, it is a coherent with the second
part which is quite clear. The first part gives the clear picture of dome and the river
with all its setting which symbolizes life full of complexities and contraries. The
second part gives description of poetic process and the urge for imaginative
fulfillment. In the second part, the poet describes the creative power of poetry
which can build such a doom in air. The entire poem is thus about the possibilities
and potentialities of creative power of a poet. The poet believes that it is art that
reflects the life with all its complexities and contradictions and art transcends life
and attains sacred connotations. In the final part, he shows art as revolutionary
which can bring change by infusing new ideas in people.
SECTION 2: DRAMA
How He Lied to Her Husband
By G.B. Shaw
Briefly answer the following questions:
A. what impression do you gather of the young man from the opening stage
directions of the play?
Ans:- From the opening stage directions, we come across a young man who is
beautiful, fanatic, romantic and an excited person. This young man of 18 years is
fully absorbed in the love-affair with Mrs. Aurora, a married young woman. He is
a romantic character, who seems to live in his own dreams and walk in the air. He
is a fanatic lover who expresses his excitements by kissing the belongings of Mrs.
Aurora’s room. He shows his Narcissist behavior by brushing off dust from his
boots instantly by his handkerchief. Sometimes he stands before the mirror and
assures himself that he is perfectly dressed.
B. Henry proposes to Aurora that they should confront her husband. How
does he suggest that they go about it?
Ans:- Henry tells Aurora that he is not ashamed of his love-affair and will himself
declare it to her husband Mr. Bompass. He tells her; let’s go to our own house this
evening without concealment and without shame. He suggests that they should go
to him hand in hand and bid him farewell. He also suggests that they should walk
out of the house without concealment and without any trick or dishonest way. They
would step out of the house freely and honestly in full honor and self respect.
C. ‘What has become of you? You are not my Aurora.’ What prompts this
lament from Henry?
Ans:- Henry entered Aurora’s living room where she feels shocked because of
missing poems. She suspects Georgina of stealing the poems and is afraid that
Georgina will disclose Aurora’s love-affair before Mr. Bompass. Henry suggests
disclosing the love affair but Aurora negates because being a social conscious
person. On this contrary subject there starts a quarrel between them. Henry
suddenly snatches fan from her hands and breaks it. Aurora is shocked and angrily
tells him that he will never be able to match this fan. Henry replies that he was
about to breaking Teddy’s pet wife and presenting him with pieces but Aurora gets
angry and says that he should not use swear words in her presence as if he was her
husband. This unexpected and disgusted remark prompts Henry to say these words.
D. I have got growing pains,’ moans Henry. What is he referring to? What has
precipitated the ‘pains’?
Ans: - There arises a dispute between Henry and Aurora because, if one is inclined
to tell the truth, the other is reluctant to the proposal. Aurora tells Henry to tell her
husband that Aurora, for whom the poems are written, is somebody else. In this
way they can conceal their love-affair and retain their reputation in public. Despite
Aurora’s insist, Henry is not ready to tell a lie. Being a straight-forward man he
would not speak the truth. This gives extreme pain to Henry and the pain
mentioned in the question refers to the same. The ‘pains’ are precipitated by the
change from romantic glow into cynical maturity suddenly. Henry says that usually
it takes 15 years but the unexpected behavior of Aurora has made it suddenly
which has precipitated his pains.
Give detailed answers to the following questions:
A. Give Mr. Bompas’ reaction to Henry’s confession that he does not admire
Mrs. Bompas ‘in that way’. What impression have you formed of Mr.
Bompas?
Ans:- When Henry confesses that he does not admire Mrs. Bompass, Mr. Bompass
becomes furious and begins to argue how she has been admired by so many
reputed persons and poets. He tells that she is the smartest woman in South
Kingston. He further tells that three actor managers were fascinated by her beauty
and offered her a hundred a week if she would go on the stage. Cabinet man who is
the busiest man neglected his business of country and preferred to dance with her.
The first professional poet in Bedford Park wrote a sonnet to her. He further tells
Henry that eldest son of Duke confessed that he had feelings for Mrs. Bompass. He
gets furious and begins to give him threats and teach him manners.
From his reaction we perceive that Mr. Bompass is a rational lover of beauty
and not a jealous or possessive husband. He takes it as a manner of honor when
somebody admires his wife or says that he has good feelings for his wife. He
begins to knock Henry when he confesses that he does not admire his wife. He is
not a possessive husband as he confessed with honor that son of Duke had feeling
with his wife and the first professional poet wrote a sonnet to her. He is a strange
type of beauty lover who praises the beauty of his wife and wants to be praised by
everyone.
B. Attempt an assessment of Aurora’s character.
Ans:- Aurora is the central character of the play How He Lied to Her Husband by
G.B. Shaw. The whole plot of the play revolves round her. Aurora is beautiful,
pretentious, honor conscious, suspicious and a married woman of 31 years old. She
is married to Mr. Bompass but has a love affair with Henry. Aurora is shocked to
know that the poems written by Henry in her praise are misplaced. She is a
suspicious woman as she suspects Georgina of stealing the poems and is afraid that
Georgina would reveal their love-affair before Mr. Bompass. Aurora is honor
conscious as she insists Henry to tell a lie before her husband. She tells Henry that
the revelation of their love-affair will cause her disgrace in the public.
Aurora is beautiful and her beauty is not only admired by Henry but her
husband mentions so many incidents where she has been admired. Aurora’s
husband regards her smartest woman in South Kingston. Actor managers were so
fascinated and offered her a hundred a week if she would go on stage. Cabinet man
neglected his business and preferred to dance with her. The eldest son of Duke has
feeling with her. She is so beautiful that her husband becomes furious when Henry
confesses that he does not admire her.
Aurora is pretentious character as she pretends to be faithful to her husband.
She pretends to be a devoted wife as well, when her husband wants to talk with
Henry alone, she quickly steps out of room and pretends to be a faithful wife. She
takes her Husband’s side when Henry and her husband begin to quarrel. To Sum
up, Aurora‘s character is a typical showman character and very apt to a Comedy.
She represents false pretentions of womenfolk and urban wife of the contemporary
society.
SWAN SONG
By Anton Chekhov
Briefly answer the following questions:
A. Comment on the implications of the title.
Ans.: The title of the play is quite apt and suggestive. It is said that a swan sings a
song before dying. According to Oxford Learners Dictionary the phrase ‘swan
song’ means ‘the last piece of work produced by an artist, a musician etc, or the
last performance by an actor, athlete etc.’ ‘Swan Song’ is a play in which a 68 year
old stage actor Svietlovidoff looks back at his life and career as an actor. The title
implicates that the play is about the last performance of an artist who is well past
his prime and youth. He is all alone without a wife and children. Death is
advancing towards him and guessing by his wretched state the performance of the
night can well be his last one.
B. ‘I have drained the bottle, only a few little drops are left at the bottom,
nothing but the dregs.’ Who says these lines in the play and what he is
referring to?
Ans. These words are uttered in the opening monologue by Svietlovidoff, the aging
68 year old protagonist of the play ‘Swan Song’. These lines have deeper
connotations. On the surface level Svietlovidoff refers to the almost empty bottle
of wine which he has drank. On the deeper level he is referring to his old age. He is
old and on the verge of death. A few drops suggest a few years of his life. ‘I have
drained the bottle’ implies how he has spent the main years of his life and that too
purposelessly.
C. What makes Svietlovidoff asset, ‘I am like the wind blowing across the
lonely fields’?
Ans. Visili Svietlovidoff, the main protagonist of the play ‘Swan Song’ is a lonely
soul. He is now at the far end of his life and has dedicated his entire life to his
acting profession. He never married and now in his old age is feeling himself alone
in the galaxy of beings. In his youth though people applauded and admired his
acting skills, no one regarded him able for marriage and other intimate
relationships. He is awful and alone and has no home to live and no relative to
care. Considering this woeful loneliness he asserts that he is like the wind blowing
across the lonely fields.
D. Comment on the opening monologue of the play.
Ans. The opening monologue is a very significant part of the play. In it the main
character, Visili Svietlovidoff expresses his anguish and anxiety after dedicating
forty years of his age to his acting career performing the role of a fool. The
monologue gives us a peep into his private life and its hardships. He never married
and now in his old age is feeling himself alone in the galaxy of beings. In his youth
though people applauded Svietlovidoff and admired his acting skills, no one
regarded him able for marriage and other intimate relationships. He is awful and
alone and has no home to live and no relative to care. In this lonely state he thinks
of life, art and death which seem not far away.
C. Discuss Ivanitch’s feelings for the old actor.
Ans. Nikita Ivanitch is a prompter at the theatre. One eventful evening he finds the
main character Svietlovidoff in a completely broken state. Svietlovidoff tells him
how he dedicated his entire youth to acting, how people admired him, took his
autographs and photographs, but never regarded him able for marriage and other
intimate relationships. Now in his old age he is alone and there is no one to take
care of him. Ivantich is all praise and respect for the old actor. He very patiently
listens to him and his feelings for the old actor are very sympathetic and
considerate.
Give detailed answers to the following questions:
A. ‘I saw through it all that day, and the knowledge was dearly brought.’
What is Svietlovidoff alluding to? What was the price that he had to pay for
his knowledge?
Ans. Visili Svietlovidoff, the main protagonist of the play ‘Swan Song’ is a lonely
soul. He is now at the fag end of his life and has dedicated his entire life to his
acting profession. He never married and now in his old age is feeling himself alone
and aloof. In this statement Svietlovidoff alludes to an incident of his youth when
he was at the prime of his profession. People used to throng around him and took
his autographs and photographs. He was madly in love with a fair girl and she too
loved him dearly. When Svietlovidoff proposed her for marriage, she refused,
setting a condition that he has to shun his acting career, because she cannot be the
wife of an actor. She loved and admired his art but was not ready to be his
companion. According to Svietlovidoff that day he realized the true nature of his
profession as well as of his audience. He realized that people admire and
appreciate an actor but no one is ready to marry him or make intimate relationships
with him.
As soon as the reality dawned at him he was a completely broken man. He
no longer believed in the claps and adoration of his audience. He says, “I
understood my audience at last, and since that day I have not believed in their
applause, or in their wreathes or in their enthusiasm”. He knew he was a stranger to
them. At that time he was at his peak as an actor, performing different kind of
roles, and displaying his great acting prowess and talent. He got the knowledge of
his audience’s mind but has to pay a great price for his knowledge. He began to
wander aimlessly, threw away his great talent, lost his looks and ever after that
played the role of a fool only. He never married, became a drunkard and now in his
old age was living an isolated and remorseful life.
C. Write an extended note on Svietlovidoff’s state of mind as portrayed in the
play.
Ans. ‘Swan Song’ is a one act play written by Anton Chekhov. In this play a sixty
year old actor Visili Svietlovidoff having fallen into a drunken stupor wakes up to
find himself alone in the theatre with the audience having gone home. In the play
through the monologues and dialogues between Svietlovidoff and Ivanitch,
Svietlovidoff’s state of mind is laid bare before the readers.
Svietlovidoff dedicated forty years of his life to theatre. Now in his old age he is
experiencing a lot of agony and anxiety caused by his long acting career and the
cold attitude of his audience towards him. He feels dejected, remorseful and utterly
frustrated. During his youth when he was at his prime as an actor he proposed a
beautiful rich girl for marriage. The girl who was in love with him asked him to
leave his acting profession. Svietlovidoff is of the opinion that at this stage he
realized that people can admire their acting but no one makes a relationship with
them. This realization made him a broken man.
At the age of sixty eight Svietlovidoff feels himself utterly frustrated and alienated.
He is suffering from physical and mental isolation. He finds that he has wasted his
youth and talent and now when he should prepare for death he is still performing a
fool’s role.
C. ‘Where there is art and genius there can never be such things as old age
and loneliness or sickness…and death’ Explain Svietlovidoff’s views in detail
and give your opinion on his assertion.
Ans. ‘Swan Song’ is a one act play written by Anton Chekhov. In this play a sixty
year old actor Visili Svietlovidoff having fallen into a drunken stupor wakes up to
find himself alone in the theatre with the audience having gone home.He is now at
the fag end of his life and has dedicated his entire life to his acting profession. He
never married and now in his old age is feeling himself alone and aloof.
The same old Svietlovidoff who in the most part of the play looked despaired and
dejected suddenly comes to life and in a sudden rush of blood asserts that great
artists are immortal beings, who neither become old nor die. He quotes
Shakespeare’s Othello, King Lear and Hamlet to justify his assertion. He says that
art immortalizes the artists. Artists transcend death and time. The old age and death
can do no harm to them. They are always remembered when people read or see
their creation. They never experience alienation because they live in the hearts of
their admirers.
To some extent Svietlovidoff is correct in his assertion. Though sickness, old age,
loneliness and death troubles great artists in their life time, their art preserves them
from time- the destroyer. On the basis of their sheer genius they remain alive for
ever. Even after centuries we still feel a thrill while reading Shakespeare, Swift or
Dickens. Our imagination takes us to new places and in another world when we
read the great Romantics. We still fell in awe of Micheal Angeleo by seeing his
masterpieces or watching Elvis Priestly dance. The artistic creations of great artists
remain a source of wisdom and great joy forever and we always love and admire
them for their genius.
SECTION 3: BIOGRAPHIES
Abraham Lincoln
Briefly answer the following questions.
A. Describe the hardships faced by the young Lincoln during his childhood.
Ans. Born in a log cabin in Hardin Country, Kentucky, America, Abraham Lincoln
was the son of Thomas Lincoln and Nancy Hanks Lincoln. Due to land dispute, the
Lincolns faced numerous adversities. The family had to move to Perry Country,
Indiana. Lincoln experienced the most devastating tragedy of his life when his
mother died at the age of 34. Merely nine, he grew resentful toward the excessive
amount of work that he was entrusted with at such an early age. His father married
a Kentucky widow and a mother of three children, Sarah Bush Johnston. Abraham
grew very close to this strong woman who not only showered her affection on him
but also encouraged him to read. The dearth of reading material in Indiana
impelled Abraham to walk miles each day simply to borrow a book. The books he
read were the family Bible, Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe, Bunyan’s Pilgrims
Progress and Aesop’s Fables.
B. It is said that Lincoln made a living by splitting wood for fire and rail
fencings. What does that tell you about his character?
Ans. This fact throws a good deal of life on his exemplary character. He was a man
with strong initiative. He believed in the dignity of labour. He wanted to be a self-
made man. He had the potential in him to rise in life. He believed in self-reliance,
the hallmark of American identity.
C. Describe Lincoln’s early career as a lawyer.
Ans. Lincoln’s entry into national politics as the only Whig from Illinois was very
brief. He made some controversial statements which offended the people. So he
left his political career by deciding not to contest for another term. Instead, he was
seen returning to Springfield as a practicing lawyer in 1857.He began to study law
through his own efforts. He did not take coaching from anyone. William
Blackstone’s Commentaries on the Laws of England had an enormous impact on
his skills as a lawyer.
D. ‘Hold your friend close and your enemies closer.’ How did Abraham
Lincoln practice this maxim?
Ans. Lincoln gave evidence of his great political acumen by selecting man y of his
political rivals as an integral part of his cabinet. This cabinet was founded on the
basis of the saying ‘Hold your friend close and your enemies closer.’ It became a
powerful force in his first term in office.
Give detailed answer to the following questions:
A. Trace the rise of Lincoln from poverty to Presidentship. Bring out the
determination and dedication of his spirit.
Ans. The life of Abraham Lincoln exemplifies the incredible journey of a man
from humble beginnings to the highest office of a country. Known for his
compassion and ideals of democracy, this messiah of the slaves left behind a well-
entrenched legacy.
Born in a log cabin in Kentucky, America, Abraham Lincoln was the son of
Thomas Lincoln and Nancy Hanks Lincoln. He got his formal education in his
manhood. The dearth of reading material in Indiana impelled Abraham to walk
miles each day simply to borrow a book. The books he read were the family Bible,
Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe, Bunyan’s Pilgrims Progress and Aesop’s
Fables.
Abraham Lincoln was elected to Illinois state legislature in 1834 as a
member of the Whig Party. This marked his entry into politics. He felt that slavery
was harmful to economic development, while at the same time championing the
cause of Whig politics vis-à-vis infrastructure and protective tariffs. He began to
formulate his views on slavery. Then he studied law. He began to practice law in a
law firm named John T. Stuart in Illinois.
His entry into national politics as the only Whig from Illinois was very brief.
His single term in the House of Representatives lasted from 1847-1849. He made
some controversial statements which offended the people. So he left his political
career by deciding not to contest for another term. Instead he was seen returning to
Springfield as a practicing lawyer in 1857. William Blackstone’s Commentaries on
the Laws of England had an enormous impact on his skills as a lawyer.
Lincoln saw the immoral basis of slavery. So he joined the Republican
Party. In 1857, the Supreme Court of the U.S. denied citizenship and the rights
therefore, to African-Americans. Abraham admitted that they could not be equated
with the whites. Despite this he was of the view that the founding fathers of the
American Constitution believed in the equality of all men. Lincoln sought this
opportunity and contested against the sitting U.S. Senator Stephen Douglas. He
rebuked President Buchanan for promoting slavery and left an indelible impact. He
warned that continuance of slavery could lead to the disintegration of the nation.
He declared:
A house divided against itself cannot stand. I believe this government
cannot endure, permanently, half slave and half free. I do not expect the
Union to be dissolved – I do not expect the house to fall – but I do expect
it will cease to be divided. It will become all one thing or the other.
This utterance was followed by many emotive and inspiring debates between
Douglas and Lincoln on variegated issues; slavery being pivotal among them.
1860 proved to be a turning point in the political career of Lincoln when the
political campaigns in Illinois lobbied for his presidency. The people of Southern
states of America knew that Lincoln was a proponent of anti-slavery. So they
expressed a desire to secede from America. Lincoln’s opposition to the secession
of Southern states from America ignited the American Civil-War.
The two historical events that come before his inauguration in March 1861
witnessed the beginning of America’s costliest and most deadly conflict. However,
he was able to fight the Civil War successfully. The involvement in Civil War
dented his popularity. He faced opposition from his generals, his cabinet, the
Republican Party and the people.
January 1, 1863 was a historic moment in the life of Lincoln and Americans
when he proclaimed the freedom of slaves. His Proclamation reads:
…all persons held as slaves within any State or designated part of a State,
the people whereof shall then be in rebellion against the United States,
shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free; and the Executive
Government of the United States, including the military and naval
authority thereof, will recognize and maintain the freedom of such persons.
Lincoln was successful in defeating his rival McClellan. The Civil War was, for
all purposes, over on April 9, 1865. Finally, Lincoln was completely successful in
curbing slavery and subduing the South after years of the ravages of war. Thus a
new era in American history began. Unfortunately, Lincoln was assassinated on
April 15, 1865 by John Wilkes Both.
B. Lincoln is considered to be the most influential American President.
Discuss this statement in view of his biography.
Ans. America has produced great leaders. Abraham Lincoln is one such
phenomenal leader who has inspired many. He was elected to Illinois state
legislature in 1834 as a member of the Whig Party. This marked his entry into
politics. He felt that slavery was harmful to economic development, while at the
same time championing the cause of Whig politics vis-à-vis infrastructure and
protective tariffs. He began to formulate his views on slavery. Then he studied law.
He began to practice law in a law firm named John T. Stuart in Illinois.
His entry into national politics as the only Whig from Illinois was very brief.
His single term in the House of Representatives lasted from 1847-1849. He made
some controversial statements which offended the people. So he left his political
career by deciding not to contest for another term. Instead he was seen returning to
Springfield as a practising lawyer in 1857. William Blackstone’s Commentaries on
the Laws of England had an enormous impact on his skills as a lawyer.
He joined the Republican Party. In 1857, the Supreme Court of the U.S.
denied citizenship and the rights therefore, to African-Americans. Abraham
admitted that they could not be equated with the whites. Despite this he was of the
view that the founding fathers of the American Constitution believed in the
equality of all men. Lincoln sought this opportunity and contested against the
sitting U.S. Senator Stephen Douglas. He rebuked President Buchanan for
promoting slavery and left an indelible impact. He warned that continuance of
slavery could lead to the disintegration of the nation.
He gave evidence of his great political acumen by selecting man y of his
political rivals as an integral part of his cabinet. This cabinet was founded on the
basis of the saying ‘Hold your friend close and your enemies closer.’ It became a
powerful force in his first term in office.
The two historical events that come before his inauguration in March 1861
witnessed the beginning of America’s costliest and most deadly conflict. However,
through his strong political acumen, he was able to fight the Civil War
successfully. January 1, 1863 was a historic moment in the life of Lincoln and
Americans when he proclaimed the freedom of slaves. Lincoln was completely
successful in curbing slavery and subduing the South after years of the ravages of
war. Thus a new era in American history began. Unfortunately, Lincoln was
assassinated on April 15, 1865 by John Wilkes Both. Lincoln is known world over
for his humanity, strong determination and political wisdom.
SIR MUHAMMAD IQBAL
Briefly answer the following questions
A. Sialkot provided formative influences on Iqbal. Discuss who or what these
influences were?
Ans. Iqbal was born on Friday, November, 9, 1877 at Sialkot, Pakistan. Iqbal’s
father, Sheikh Nur-Muhammed, was a tailor by profession. He led a life of
religious piety and often sought the company of scholars and mystics. Iqbal says
again and again that his own views were influenced by his father’s simple but
deeply religious character. Iqbal’s mother was also religious and generous. She
often helped the poor and needy.
At the tender age of 5, Iqbal joined the local madrasa. His mentor, Mir
Hasan introduced him to the Islamic religious heritage and encouraged Iqbal to a
refined literary taste. Mir Hasan stressed the need for Muslims to have secular
European education in addition to their religious one to meet the challenges of
modern times. So Iqbal, was admitted to Sialkot’s Murray College where Mr.
Hasan taught Arabic. The seeds of his love of Quran were also sown in Murray
College. Iqbal claimed that his poetry was a mere elucidation of the ‘Qur’anic’
message.
B. Describe Iqbal’s academic pursuits in Europe. How did Europe impact his
views?
Ans. Iqbal’s mental horizons expanded under the patronage of Sir Thomas Arnold,
Scholar of Islam and modern philosophy at Murray College Lahore. Arnold then
persuaded him to pursue higher education in Europe. In 1905, Iqbal got admission
to Cambridge’s Trinity College. It was renowned centre of Arabic and Persian
studies. Iqbal enrolled as a student of law at Lincoln’s in London and then became
doctoral student at Munich University. In June, 1907 he was awarded B. A. from
Cambridge and a Ph. D from Munich University for his thesis titled ‘The
Development of Metaphysics in Persia’.
Iqbal admired some aspects of the European civilisation. But he was critical
of its secular character and its rampant materialism. He warned the Muslims of the
dangers of blindly imitating the West.
C. What was Iqbal’s main criticism of Western society?
Ans. In 1905, Iqbal got admission to Cambridge’s Trinity College. It was
renowned centre of Arabic and Persian studies. Iqbal enrolled as a student of law at
Lincoln’s in London and then became doctoral student at Munich University. In
June 1907, he was awarded B. A. from Cambridge and a Ph. D from Munich
University for his thesis titled ‘The Development of Metaphysics in Persia’.
Iqbal’s stay in Europe changed him radically. He admired some aspects of
the European civilisation. But he was critical of its secular character and its
rampant materialism. He rejected territorial and ethnic nationalism in Europe in
favour of the ideological universalism in Islam.
Give detailed answer to the following questions:
A. Discuss Allama Iqbal’s status as an eminent poet-thinker of the twentieth
century.
Ans. An original thinker, an outstanding poet and a distinguished philosopher, Sir
Muhammed Iqbal figures among the most influential personalities of the twentieth
century. Hailed as ‘the most daring intellectual modernist the Muslim world has
produced’, he is variously referred to as Allama Iqbal, Allama meaning ‘Scholar’,
Muffakir-e-Pakistan (The Thinker of Pakistan), Shaire-e-Mashriq (The Poet of the
East) and Hakeem-ul-Ummat (The Sage of Ummah). His ancestors came from
Kashmir. In his poetry Iqbal often refers to his Kashmir. He was deeply moved by
the sufferings of the people of Kashmir.
Iqbal, was admitted to Sialkot’s Murray College where Mr. Hasan taught
Arabic. The seeds of his love of Quran were also sown in Murray College. Iqbal
claimed that his poetry was a mere elucidation of the ‘Qur’anic’ message.
Iqbal’s mental horizons expanded under the patronage of Sir Thomas
Arnold, Scholar of Islam and modern philosophy. He wrote a research paper on
Abd-al Karim al-Jili’s concept of the ‘Perfect man’. At Lahore, Iqbal established
his reputation as a talented poet in several literary circles like the Anjuman….i-
Himayat-Islam (Society for the support of Islam). Soon his poetry began to deal
with the theme of patriotism.
His political and philosophical views began to take on a definite shape while
his poetry was now geared to a special purpose. He wanted the past Islamic glory
to be revived. He often criticised the divisions among Muslims and spoke in terms
of a global Muslim community or the Ummah.He began to address the Ummah
through Persian poetry, as this was the lingua franca of the Muslim world. His first
book in Persian was Asrar- i- Khudi (Secrets of Self). The essence of the message
in this collection is cultivation of dynamic human personality through action and a
head on confrontation with the hardships and difficulties of life. This collection
was translated into English by R. M. Nicholson and this introduced Iqbal’s poetry
to the western world. The Rumuz-i-Bekhudi puts forth the function of the
individual in the society. A person must secure his individuality. But after
achieving his individuality, he should sacrifice his personal ambitions for the needs
of the larger community. Payam-i-Mashriq (The Message of the East) was written
as a response to Goethe’s message. Goethe had lamented that the West had become
very materialistic. Goethe looked to the East for spiritual elevation. Iqbal saw
similarity between the conditions of Germany and that of India. He laid down the
moral and religious tenets for character building of individuals and nations.
Zubur-i-Ajam (Persian Psalms) was published in 1927. Iqbal poses questions
about man and his world and answers them with the help of ancient and modern
insights. In ‘Bandagi Nama’ he condemns slavery and discusses its impact on a
nation’s culture and religion. All along, Iqbal insists on action, dynamism and
spirituality. It dramatizes Iqbal’s spiritual journey through heavenly spheres till he
finally reaches God’s presence. Iqbal depicted as Zinda Rud is guided by Rumi, the
master, in his journey. Addressing his son Javid towards the end, Iqbal claims his
aim in the poem is to provide guidance to the new generation.
Iqbal’s first work was published in Urdu, Bang- Dara (The Sound of the
Caravan Bell) in 1924, was a collection of patriotic poems. Bal-e-Jabril (Wings of
Gabriel) is considered to be the finest of Iqbal’s poetry. Iqbal continued with his
mission in prose work as well. He delivered a series of lectures in various cities of
India. These lectures were published in 1930 under the title ‘The Reconstruction of
Religious Thought in Islam’. It is considered as the most important work of
modern Islam.
B. Discuss in detail the efforts made by Iqbal for the spiritual and political
resurgence of the Muslims in India.
Ans. Iqbal’s stay in Europe changed him radically. He admired some aspects of the
European civilisation. But he was critical of its secular character and its rampant
materialism. He warned the Muslims of the dangers of blindly imitating the West.
He then revised the role of a poet in society. He felt that the role of a poet was that
of nation building. He rejected territorial and ethnic nationalism in Europe in
favour of the ideological universalism in Islam.
Iqbal returned to India in 1908. Meanwhile the political events in India and
the situation of Muslims elsewhere added to the troubles of Iqbal. The British had
cancelled the 1905 partition of Bengal province in 1911. This caused a lot of
disappointment to the Muslims of India. The condition of Muslims elsewhere was
also quite depressing. He woke to a sense of mission which was to infuse new
vigour and vitality in the Muslim mind. His political and philosophical views
began to take on a definite shape while his poetry was now geared to a special
purpose. He wanted the past Islamic glory to be revived.
Iqbal’s first work was published in Urdu, Bang- Dara (The Sound of the
Caravan Bell) in 1924, was a collection of patriotic poems. Bal-e-Jabril (Wings of
Gabriel) is considered to be the finest of Iqbal’s poetry. Iqbal continued with his
mission in prose work as well. He delivered a series of lectures in various cities of
India. These lectures were published in 1930under the title ‘The Reconstruction of
Religious Thought in Islam’. It is considered as the most important work of
modern Islam.
Iqbal’s concern for the Muslims of the world and those of India was
expressed through his literary works and through his active involvement in several
global Islamic causes. He played an active and crucial role in India’s political
arena. He was an advocate of Hindu-Muslim unity. Eventually he came to doubt
the viability of his unity. He is said to have worked for a separate country for the
Muslims of India. Iqbal didn’t live to see the formation of Pakistan in 1947. He is
venerated as its spiritual father. Iqbal was especially instrumental in convincing
Muhammad Ali Jinnah to end his self-imposed exile in London, return to India and
take charge of the Muslim League.
Iqbal urged the Muslims to exhibit self-reliance and seek solutions to their
political and communal problems on their own. He stressed the necessity of the
Muslims to maintain their distinct religious and cultural identity. He opposed all
proposals of the British and Congress of India which aimed at minimising the
autonomy of Muslims.
C. Attempt a detailed discussion of the poetical works of Iqbal.
Ans. An original thinker, an outstanding poet and a distinguished philosopher, Sir
Muhammed Iqbal figures among the most influential poets of the twentieth
century. His ancestors came from Kashmir. In his poetry Iqbal often refers to his
Kashmiri origins and Brahmin ancestry.
Iqbal’s mental horizons expanded under the patronage of Sir Thomas
Arnold, Scholar of Islam and modern philosophy. At Lahore, Iqbal established his
reputation as a talented poet in several literary circles like the Anjuman….i-
Himayat-Islam (Society for the support of Islam). Soon his poetry began to deal
with the theme of patriotism.
He often criticised the divisions among Muslims and spoke in terms of a
global Muslim community or the Ummah. He began to address the Ummah
through Persian poetry, as this was the lingua franca of the Muslim world. His first
book in Persian was Asrar- i- Khudi (Secrets of Self). The essence of the message
in this collection is cultivation of dynamic human personality through action and a
head on confrontation with the hardships and difficulties of life. This collection
was translated into English by R. M. Nicholson and this introduced Iqbal’s poetry
to the western world. The Rumuz-i-Bekhudi puts forth the function of the
individual in the society. A person must secure his individuality. But after
achieving his individuality, he should sacrifice his personal ambitions for the needs
of the larger community. Payam-i-Mashriq (The Message of the East) was written
as a response to Goethe’s message. Goethe had lamented that the West had become
very materialistic. Goethe looked to the East for spiritual elevation. Iqbal saw
similarity between the conditions of Germany and that of India. He laid down the
moral and religious tenets for character building of individuals and nations.
Zubur-i-Ajam (Persian Psalms) was published in 1927. Iqbal poses questions
about man and his world and answers them with the help of ancient and modern
insights. In ‘Bandagi Nama’ he condemns slavery and discusses its impact on a
nation’s culture and religion. All along, Iqbal insists on action, dynamism and
spirituality. It dramatizes Iqbal’s spiritual journey through heavenly spheres till he
finally reaches God’s presence. Iqbal depicted as ZindaRud is guided by Rumi, the
master, in his journey. Addressing his son Javid towards the end, Iqbal claims his
aim in the poem is to provide guidance to the new generation.
Iqbal’s first work was published in Urdu, Bang- Dara (The Sound of the
Caravan Bell) in 1924, was a collection of patriotic poems. Bal-e-Jabril (Wings of
Gabriel) is considered to be the finest of Iqbal’s poetry.
Iqbal suffered from several ailments. He died in Lahore in 1938. His tomb
is located in the space between the entrance of the Badshahi Mosque and the
Lahore Fort. Iqbal has become a legend who commands attention and admiration
all over the world. His poetry appeals the general reader and his philosophical
ideas are stimulating for the scholars.