Poem No. 1 ( The Rain by W.H.Davies)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “The Rain,” composed by W.H.Davies
Context
This poem is a musical display of rain, a great phenomenon of nature. It describes the beauty of nature very realistically and appeals to the hearts of human beings who feel elevated in the company of nature. However, the scene of sunshine after rain is lovely and a source of pleasure to everyone.
Explanation
Lines(1-6) I hear leaves………………………drinking near
In these lines, the poet describes his feelings as he sees the rain falling on the trees before him. The thirsty leaves drink rainwater with a musical sound. The rain is also falling drop by drop to the poor leaves beneath. When the leaves on top are saturated, they give drop after drop to the poor leaves beneath. The poet says that it is very captivating sight to hear this noise and see the green leaves absorbing rain drops. Rich leaves and poor leaves are the symbols of the upper and lower classes. The poet hints at the differences between rich and poor people and the problems that the poor face in nature and society.
Lines(7-12) And when………………….lovely sight
In these lines, the poet describes the scene after the rain stops. He hopes joyfully that when it stops raining, the sun will come out. It will emerge with its full light and splendor. Then the beautiful sunlight will fall on the round raindrops wonderfully. The sun will turn their darkness and dullness into brightness. Everything will shine brightly. They will be righteous in their glory. The sun will shine in its majesty. It will be a highly beautiful and captivating scene. Besides physical beauty, there is a good moral in the poem.
Poem No.2( Night Mail by W.H.Auden)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “Night Mail,” composed by W.H. Auden.
Context
The poem deals with the beauty and charm of a journey undertaken by the railway train during the peaceful hours of night, bringing mail that contains letters, postal orders, cheques for people who live in the various parts of the land.
Explanation
Lines(1-4) This is the…………………………..next door
In these lines, the poet describes the journey of a night mail. The poet describes the movement of a train across the border between England and Scotland. She carries cheques and postal orders for the people. She carries letters for the rich and the poor people like shopkeepers and girls in their homes.It means that she is the people’s train and is very useful for them. She is very useful for business and social purposes. In this way, it helps bring people closer to one another. It is a symbol of unity for the people. It plays an important role in society.
Lines(5-8)Pulling up………………………………her shoulder
In these lines, the poet paints the picture of a night mail passing over different areas. The night mail stops at Beattock after climbing up to the station. She reaches the station on time, even if she has to move upwards and downwards. It passes by cotton fields, grass fields, and boulders of moorland. She gives out white steam that spreads all over her body. It is a symbol of punctuality and regularity. It teaches us the lesson to be regular and punctual, however greater hardships we are to bear.
Lines(9-12) Snorting noisly…………………………coaches
In these lines, the poet describes the noisy movement of night mail and the reaction of birds when it passes by them. She moves constantly by the grasses, bent on the ground under the pressure of the wind. When it reaches, the birds become alert. The birds look constantly at its coaches that are dull and meaningless to them. They are frightened at its arrival, but look at it with love. They do not get disturbed, as they do not feel anything new about it.
Lines(13-16) Sheep dogs………………..shakes gently
In these lines, the poet describes the reactions of different creatures at the arrival of the train. The dogs looking after the sheep know that they cannot change the path of the night. They are not disturbed at all. They keep sleeping, paws across. The people in their huts and on farms sleep on We all accept it as a reality. Only a jug in a hut shakes as the train passes by. The night mail is harmless that no one is disturbed at its arrival or when it passes by. These lines are about are about the movement of the train and its effects.
Poem No.3( Loveliest of Trees, The Cherry Now by A.E Housman)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “Loveliest of Trees, The Cherry Now” composed by A.E Housman
Context
This poem is a beautiful manifestation of poet’s love for nature. He lives the cherry trees since the fifty years of his life. He is deeply impressed by its beauty. The poem encourages the readers to spend most of their time in the company of nature.
Explanation
Lines(1-4) Loveliest of……………………………Easter tide
In these lines, the poet describes the beauty of the cherry tree. The poet describes the cherry tree as the most beautiful of all trees in spring. Lovely white flowers are hanging from the branches, adding to their beauty. It is wearing a white dress to celebrate Easter. The cherry stands on the path for riders in the woodland. It seems that Cherry has cast a magical effect on the poet.
Lines(5-8) Now of my………………………….fifty more
In these lines, the poet connects his life with the cherry tree. The poet is sorrowful. He regrets that twenty years of his life, out of seventy, have passed in carelessness. He sadly notes the passage of twenty years of his life. Now, he is left with only fifty years. They are not enough to cherish the beauty of cherries. Springs will come and go, but he may not be able to enjoy the charms of nature as well as he did in the first twenty years of his life.
Lines(9-12) And since……………………..with snow
In these lines, the poet describes his feelings and his future plans. He is left with only fifty years. Now, the next fifty years are not enough to view the beauty of the cherry flowers. So, he will visit the woodland in winter to view the cherry trees hung with snow. He does not want to waste even a single moment of his life. He will make the best use of the time at his disposal, or as long as he lives.
Poem No.4( O Where Are you Going by W.H.Auden)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “O Where are you going” composed by W.H.Auden.
Context
This poem is a dialogue between two imaginary persons, personified as reader and rider. The reader is a coward and a lazy person. He tries to warn the rider of the dangers in the valley. But the rider is ready to face every hardship with a stout heart.
Explanation
Lines(1-4) O where are………………………tall return
In these lines, the poet describes a dialogue between two imaginary people. The reader is inactive, and the rider is active. The reader cautions the rider about the harmful realities of life. The valley he is traveling through is fatal when furnaces burn.
These lines present a very beautiful conflict in the mind of human beings. The reader does not believe in continuous active struggle. The reader warns the rider that he will face all these if he struggles in life.
Lines(5-8)O do you imagine…………..granite to grass
In these lines, the poet wants to describe a dialogue between two imaginary persons, personified as fearer and farer. One is coward and the other is brave. The reader or fearer uses four symbols to frighten the rider or traveler. The dusk is the darkness of evening. The pass is the narrow passage which is false hope. Granite is a difficult path and grass is the soft path. The fearer tries to frighten and convincing the farer that he will not be able to find anything important. So he should give up his ambition.
Lines(9-12) O what was…………………shocking disease
In these lines, the author wants to describe a dialogue between two imaginary persons personified as hearers and horrors. One is pessimistic, and the other is optimist. In this stanza, the bird means problems and hardships. The twisted trees mean a doubtful condition of life. The horrified person whispers in the ears of the hearer. He tries to frighten him by using different symbols, and in this way, he tries to horrify the hearer. The fearful man does all he can to stop the hearer from going onward to his destination.
Lines(13-16) Out of this……………left them there.
In these lines, the rider, farer, or hearer gives his final answer to the reader. The optimist speaks to the pessimist. He first asks him to get out of his house. Secondly, he tells the reader that his talk is useless. Thirdly, the rider tells him that if there are any great problems or troubles, they are waiting for him. Hardships and suffering flock around. He should now face these problems himself. He should leave them behind and get ahead fearfully.
Poem No.5( In the street of fruit stalls by Jan Stallworthy)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “In the street of fruit stalls” composed by Jan Stallworthy
Context
The poem throws light on the existence of pleasures and sorrows in human life at the same time. The poet depicts the scene of a fruit street. Melon, guava, and Mandarin are lying in conical form. Innocent people enjoy the flavor of fruits withoutcaring aboutg anything around them.
Explanation
Lines (1-5) Wicks balanced…………..from within
In these lines, the poet presents the scene of fruits lying in the street of fruit stalls. The fruit sellers have arranged the fruits for a very healthy activity. The military arranges cannon balls in this form. The poet describes that it is nighttime and candles are burning. A dark dew is falling in the street. Different fruits are lying in piles like cannon balls. They are red hot and golden from inside. It shows that poet has deep observation. His mind is full of horrors of war. The fruits are like cannon balls, symbols of ruin and destruction.
Lines (6-10) Dark Children……………pitted skin
In these lines, the poet describes and depicts the scene, full of pain and misery for the poor children. The children come from poor, working-class families. They are black and come to spend their coins. They are standing in the orbit of the lantern. Their mouths watered to see the beautiful fruits. The fruits seem to them like the moon packed in a peel or the sun wrapped up in a skin. The poet has used metaphors of the moon and sun to describe the fruits as the children look at them.
Lines (11-15) They take it………….standing in.
In these lines, the poet describes the way the children buy fruit and break it open. The fountain of juice coming out with force is described beautifully when the children eat fruit; their mouth, fingers, cheeks, noses, and chins become wet. They become happy, and their faces begin to glow with the light of the lantern. The poet watches the children and fruits from a dark place in the street. The children do not see him. He is silently happy to see the children happy.
Poem No.6 ( A Sindhi woman by Jan Stallworthy)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “A Sindhi woman” composed by Jan Stallworthy.
Context
This poem is a tribute to the glory and grace of a working woman. This poem is in fact, in praise of hard work and labor and pays rich tribute to those who are involved in it. The poet believes that those who struggle hard stand erect in the world and lead a graceful and dignified life.
Explanation
Lines (1-6) Bare foot………. in her tread
In these lines, the poet seems to be impressed by the walk of the woman. The Sindhi woman walks steadily and regularly. She is barefoot. She is oobserving theveil. The wind removes the cloth from her face. She is carrying a stone jar on her head. She does not show even a single ripple in her graceful walk. She has to walk erectly and keep her body balanced. Otherwise, the jar on her head can fall down.
Lines (7-12) Watching her………..a weight
In these lines, the poet depicts the picture of a woman who is going through the slums of Karachi. She walks erectly and steadily over stones, garbage, human waste, and pieces of glass with a stone jar on her head.
The poet compares her smartness with her own physical condition. He concludes that those who work and learn to walk under the weight keep their bodies erect like Sindhi women.
Poem No.7 (Times from Ecclesiastes)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “Times” from the book of the Bible known as Ecclesiastes.
Context
This poem shows the major role of time in our lives. The poem makes it clear, or rather certifies, that everything in the world happens according to a set program. So, we should also do our jobs at their appropriate times. This is very necessary for the smooth running of the affairs of life.
Explanation
Lines(1-6) To everthing………..planted
In these lines, the preacher says that there is a fixed timetable for every activity and work. He says that everything happens at a fixed time in the world. It means that we should accept the plan or scheme of Allah Almighty. We should know that every birth and every death has its time. Seeds are planted at a fixed time and in the season of their planting. Cutting down the grown-up plant has its time. Nothing happens before, during, or after its time. In any case, we should do everything when it is the right time to do it.
Lines (7-12) A time to break down…….stone together
In these lines, the preacher says that there is a fixed time for every constructive and destructive work. A machine or a living body stops working or breaks down when it os too old or cannot work at all. There is a time fix for weeping or crying over losses. There is a fix time for happiness or for dancing to some success. There is a time to throw away stones or gather.
Lines(13-18) A time to embrace…………cast away
In these lines, the preacher says that there is a fix timetable for every activity and action. He says there is a time to promote friendship or to welcome and meet people, and a time to refrain from it. We get something at a certain time and lose something at another time. We should act according to the needs of the time in the given situation. Everything happens at an appropriate and fixed time.
Lines (19-22) A time to rend…………….to speak
In these lines, the preacher says that there is a fix timetable for every activity and every action. He says that we tear away the piece of cloth so as to mold it or change it in the form of a shirt, and then we sew the clothes. There is an appropriate time to keep quiet and a time to speak. So it is necessary to know well that we should keep silent and when we should speak about a matter in a situation.
Poem No.8 (Ozymandias by P.B.Shelley)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “Ozymandias” composed by P.B.Shelley.
Context
It is a very ironic poem that describes the pride of a man and the wretched reality of life. The poem also deals with the feelings of pride and superiority and the tragic fate that befalls a man who cherishes these feelings without having any right to do so.
Explanation
Lines (1-3) I met…………in the desert
In these lines, the poet met a traveler from a very ancient country. The traveler told the poet about his experiences visiting a desert. The traveler told him that he saw two huge, bodiless legs made of stone. Those legs were standing in the desert.
Lines (3-8) Near them…….heart that fed
In these lines, the traveler told the poet that near them the broken huge legs were lying and the broken body of a man half sunk in the sand. His proud and angry look, wrinkled lips, scornful orders, and bitter impressions on his face show that the sculptor or figurist has understood his high feelings and passions. The king’s passions still exist in his broken statue of stone.The sculptor very well made fun of the king’s pride, and it was clear that he was very proud and haughty.
Lines(9-14) And on the pedestal…….far away
In these lines, the traveler tells the poet that the words written on the base of the statue were that Ozymandias was the king of kings. He asked others to look at his deeds and works, ye mighty, and despair. The traveler further told the poet that there was nothing in the desert except this ruined statue. Around the huge, shattered statue is sand to the extent of the vision. Pride has met its fall. All his power has dashed to the ground. Thus, the statue gave a lesson to all powerful and great people that they should not be proud of themselves because their power is short-lived. The reader must learn a lesson from it.
Poem No.9 (The Feed by Ahmad Nadeem Qasmi)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “The Feed” composed by Ahmad Nadeem Qasmi.
Context
This is a simple poem reflecting the love and devotion of a mother for her children and the sense of fraternity among the brothers and sisters. These feelings are quite natural and shun every selfish motive.
Explanation
Lines(1-5) Holding…………..they cry
In these lines, the poet describes his personal experience after his keen observation of the difficulties of the mother sparrow. She is bringing food to her younger ones. She brings only a grain of millet in her beak to the nest where young ones are waiting for her. The young ones are so tiny and small that only beaks are visible. They are all like beaks.
Lines( 6-9) One grain……….she solace?
In these lines, the poet describes his personal experience of the difficulty of the mother sparrow. The mother bird brings a grain of millet to her young ones. The grain is one, but the children are ten. They are lying with their beaks joined together. She is in a fix to whom she should feed and satisfy first. She does not know whose beak she should join and drop the grain of food.
Lines (10-15) Fissuring………………ten young ones.
In these lines, the poet is reprimanding man for splitting the atom, not a grain of millet. He says that man breaks up the atom to make the atom bomb. He says that they are making atom bombs and other dangerous weapons, but they have not yet been able to provide food to the poor. A bird breaks up a grain to feed her young ones. We cannot divide a grain into several parts, like the bird. The bird splits the grain, and at the same time she advises them to keep quiet. This will teach them how to lead a life when they grow up. Here, the poet tries to draw our attention to the problems of hunger and population explosion.
Poem No.10 (The Hollow Men by T.S.Eliot)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “The Hollow Men” composed by T.S.Eliot.
Context
This poem deals with the very dark aspect of human beings. They have become soulless. The poet tells us about the poor condition of a modern man. He is devoid of all confidence. He is lazy, unproductive, and lacks spirit.
Explanation
Lines (1-4) We are ………………..Alas!
In these lines, the poet criticizes all human beings living at this time in the modern age. He laments the miserable condition of modern men. They are hollow from inside. Their skins or bodies have unusable material inside and nothing of great value. They try to support each other in their weakness an helplessness. They do not possess wisdom, and their brains are filled with straw.
Lines (5-10) Our dried……….dry cellars.
In these lines, the poet is sorrowful at the poor state of modern men. The poet says that we have no good ideas or thoughts to express. We are not confident or sure of ourselves. Our voices are empty and meaningless as the wind in dry grass. It is like the sound of rats moving over broken glass in a dark underground room. The poet calls modern men hollow men because they are worthless without knowledge, wisdom, and love.
Lines (11-12) Shape…………….motion.
In these lines, the poet criticizes human beings, or all of us. The structure of our bodies is without any formation. Our bodies do not give any proper idea of our personalities. It means that our heights, color of the skin, shapes of our heads, and parts of our bodies do not show our qualities. We are hollow men.
Lines (13-18) Those who………………….stuffed men
In these lines, the poet is sorrowful at the poor state of modern men. Those who have gone directly to the other world after death still remember us if at all they do. They do not know how violent and aggressive the souls of modern men are. They are totally hollow from inside.
The poet says that when the stuffed puppets die, they are not remembered as worthy human beings. They are remembered as hollow men. Thus, the poet finally concludes that we are useless for this world as well as in the next.
Poem No.11 (Leisure by W.H.Davies)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “Leisure” composed by W.H.Davies.
Context
In this poem, the poet criticizes the busy life in the modern age. People are so busy with wordly affairs that they ignore other delights of life. There lies many wonders of nature around us, but we are blind to them. Such a busy life is worthless and miserable.
Explanation
Lines (1-4) What is this………………………sheep or cows
In these lines, the poet wants to talk about the busy routine of man’s life. He regrets the busy life of modern man. He says that man has no time to enjoy the beauty of nature. The poet wants to visit fields and gardens to spend time under the trees. But, he has no time to enjoy the beautiful sights of nature. The poet curses modern man. His busy life has separated him from nature.
Lines( No time to see………….skies at night)
In these lines, the poet criticizes our busy life and habits in modern society. This busy life does not leave us to enjoy the beauties of nature. He has no time to go out and see the bright daylight. He has no time to go out and see the streams full of stars, and the starry night is reflected in the water of the stream.
Lines( 7-12) No time to turn……….stand and stare
In these lines, the poet criticizes our busy lives and habits in modern society. This busy life does not leave us time to enjoy the beauties of nature. He has no time to even look at the beautiful eyes of the woman. He has no time to see how the feet of the beautiful woman can dance quickly. We do not enjoy the smiles in her eyes, on her lips, or face. He has no time to watch her beautiful face. We, thus, miss a lot of the charm and attraction of life. So, we live to no good purpose. This is a great loss that modern man is suffering from.
Poem No.12 (Rubai’yat by Allama Iqbal)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “Rubai’yat” composed by Allama Iqbal.
Context
This poem emphasizes the need of faith in human life. We should have strong faith like Hazrat Abraham(A.S). The modern Muslims are captivated by modern civilization. They lack human love. So all their efforts are fruitless.
Explanation
Lines( 1-4) Faith is like……………….than slavery
In these lines, the poet addresses the Muslims. He tells them that true faith is like that of Abraham (A.S.). Abraham (A.S.) was ready to sacrifice his life and son for God. The poet warns the Muslims of his time that it is dangerous for them to be so charmed and attracted by the ways of modern world. If they do not have true faith in God, their condition will be worse than that of slaves. It means that the Muslims will become slaves of the western nations if they do not follow Islam.
Lines(5-8) Music of ……………………………Makkah bends
In these lines, the poet addresses the Muslims and says that only Islam is the superior force in life. The fine arts of Europeans, like music, have been influenced with the strong religious passion of Muslims. They are affecting badly the religious spirit of the Muslims, on which their unity and progress depend. The essence of Europe is totally devoid of this concord and harmony because it has no unanimous Qibla. That is why Iqbal calls western civilization soulless.
Lines(9-12) Love’s madness………………………than the skin
In these lines, the poet describes the true condition of the Muslims in their relationship with God. He says that the passion for love has vanished from the hearts of Muslims. They have become matematerialistse blood in their veins runs thin. The Muslims have lost their former unity. They are emotionally disturbed and confused. Their prayers have lost their force and effectiveness. There is no enthusiasm in their prayers. They have no love for humanity. These feelings are only skin deep.
Poem No.13 (A tale of Two Cities by John Peter)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “A Tale of two Cities” composed by John Peter.
Context
The poem deals with the complete devastation of two cities of Japan caused by the atomic bomb in 1945. There was great death and destruction. People were made helpless and powerless. But they do not lose heart and faced this devastation with courage.
Explanation
Lines (1-4) In the storms…………..they made
In these lines, the poet describes the scene of destruction caused by a bomb blast at Hiroshima and Nagasaki, two cities in Japan. The people of the country were in constant fear of attacks by enemies and destruction. There were cries, shrills, and yells everywhere. Smoke covered the sky. Everybody was injured, burned, wounded, and terrified. All the people who were within range of the attacks were killed or injured horribly. They were made powerless and helpless.
Lines(5-8) Woefull ……………………their groans
In these lines, the poet describes the scene of destruction caused by bomb blast at Hiroshima and Nagasaki, two cities of Japan. The poet describes the miserable condition of the people after the explosion. He says all the hills and mountains were afflicted. The natural objects looked very sad. All things were gloomy and sorrowful. There was no one to lessen their pain and ssuffering All were dying in their own pain.
Lines(9-12) The flowers……….nothing behind
In these lines, the poet describes the scene of destruction caused by a bomb blast at Hiroshima and Nagasaki, two cities in Japan. The poet describes the condition and vast destruction due to the explosion. All vegetation, flowers, fruits, and foods with tasty smells were destroyed. Everything that came in the way of the war was burned, crushed, and destroyed completely. All the people lost their property and things. All were ruined. Nothing remained safe and sound behind.
Lines(13-16) No eye could………………..of furies
In these lines, the poet describes the scene of destruction caused by bomb blast at Hiroshima and Nagasaki, two cities of Japan. These explosions killed the two famous and glorious cities of Japan. There was no one to witness the destruction caused by the explosion. All life and activities of these two glorious cities were destroyed within moments of ferocity or severity. It was the climax of human behavior.
Lines(17-20) All was done………………..deadly fights
In these lines, the poet describes the scene of destruction caused by bomb blast at Hiroshema and Nagasaki, two cities of Japan. The poet refers to the nation which spread destruction without caring for human rights. The poet was in a sad mood that this explosion was done by a nation that was in great passion and anger. They caused large-scale destruction, killings, and the devastation of property. America, instead of saving human rights, caused a vast scale of death and destruction.
Lines( 21-24) But how much………………the great
In these lines, the poet talks about the greatness and glory of the Japanese nation. He says that Japanese people faced or suffered bravely and courageously from all the large-scale killings and destruction. The poet pays tribute to these people. They emphasized that ashes were not merely a heap of waste. These ashes could create great things. Those people did not lose heart. They can make a great nation through heroic struggle and rebuild themselves.
Poem No.14 (My Neighbour’s friend, breathing his last by Bullah Shah)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “My neighbor’s friend, breathing his last,” composed by Bullah Shah and translated by A.R. Luther.
Context
The poem deals with the bitter reality of death, the impacts of death scene on the people, and the love of Allah. Before death, everything is helpless. A dead person loses every charm of life. Only Allah’s love accompanies him in the world hereafter.
Explanation
Lines( 1-5) My neighbour………………Aghast!
The poet expresses his natural passion for grief over the sure death of his dear neighbor’s friend. He addresses God Almighty, expresses his agony and pains, and asks for His (ALLAH) guidance on what to do at this moment. This is the most trying or difficult time for the poet. He now feels that the companions of his dear friend are ready to die to join the people going to the other world, one after the other. He himself feels like dying and leaving the world after his friend. He is not ready to stay. He is puzzled about what to do.
Lines(6-8) On every side……………….Aghast!
In these lines, the poet says that everywhere people are talking to departure. He feels that anywhere he goes, people are soon going to weep and cry over the death of someone close to them. Shrieks and cries of pain and agony of separation are heard everywhere. He is terrified to see this sight. He implores Allah to guide him on what to do at this moment of agony and pain.
Lines(9-11) Flare up……………………..Aghast!
The poet is very sad and gloomy at the death of his close friend. He no longer desires to live. He says that flames are rising in his heart to see that his beloved friend is departing and leaving him behind. He cannot see or find his dear friend’s lovely presence anywhere. Nothing is attractive or charming to him now. He asks Allah what to do at the sight of his heart because he is terrified.
Lines(12-14) Without His love…………………Aghast!
The poet’s close friend is going to depart. He is facing the pangs of separation. In this moment, he remembers Allah, prays to Him, and seeks His advice on what to do. He says that without the love of Allah, bullah is nothing. The poet says that he cannot live on without God’s mercy. He can neither live in the world nor in the next world without God’s mercy. So, even if his dear and close friend has died, he will remember God’s love and mercy for him and all human beings, and, thus, he will continue to live.
Poem No.15 (He came to know himself by Sachal Sarmast)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “He came to know himself,” composed by Sachal Sarmast and translated by A.R. Luther.
Context
This is an English version of the original poem. This poem stresses the need for self realization leads to God’s life. A person forgets everything when he loves God. He even becomes Mansur in his love or gets ready to be sold as a slave.
Explanation
Lines(1-4) He came to……………. in love
In these lines, the poet explains that a person knows himself by nearness to God. He wishes to be known. For this purpose, he got entangled in love. The poet explains how Mansur, the great Muslin mystic, came to understand what he was and what he was to do in life as a mission. For communion with Allah, he sheds tears at night, and in this way, he becomes His most beloved creation. This love and God’s grace enabled him to understand himself.
Lines(5-8) He alighted…………….cut off
In these lines, the poet describes the life of Mansur as one devoted to God and then to human beings. The poet explains how the mystic Mansur gave his life for the sake of God. First, he became a perfect lover of God and was completely lost in his love. He wished to be known. He came down from heaven and showered a waterfall of love on human beings. They said that he could not claim to be close to God to ordinary human beings, even as a mystic. So, he was condemned to death and went to the gallows. There, his head was cut off.
Lines(9-12) He treaded…………….on earth
In these lines, the poet tells us about Hazrat Yousaf (A.S.). He was taken to the bazaar of Egypt to be sold as a slave. The people did not understand the true worth of Hazrat Yousaf (A.S.), just as they did not understand the worth of Mansur. This is the fate of great people. The poet has given the true facts of life. The life of Mansur, who offered his life in the way of truth like Hazrat Yousaf (A.S). He says that life on earth is temporary. All the people are sent in the world to know themselves and Allah.
Poem No.16 (God’s Attributes by Jalaluddin Rumi)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “God’s Attributes,” composed by Jalaluddin Rumi and translated by Dr. Nicholson.
Context
This poem deals with the significance of God’s attributes in the life of a man. The knowledge of these attributes saves us from committing sin, using foul language, and plotting evil. These attributes are not mere names. They are real and reflect great power.
Explanation
Lines (1-4) God calls……………….foul discourse
In these lines, the poet tells us about God’s attributes and tells us of then wisdom hidden behind them. The poet says that God Almighty’s names have purposes and aims. For example, God calls Himself “Seeing”. Its purpose is to stop us from committing sins. He observes every deed of ours. God calls Himself “Hearing”. Its purpose is to stop us from having immoral talk.
Lines (5-6) God calls……………….an evil
In these lines, the poet tells us about God’s attributes and tells us of then wisdom hidden behind them. The poet says that God Almighty’s names have purposes and aims. For example, God calls Himself “knowing.”. Its purpose is to warn us about every evil thing or deed that we do. He wants to make us careful of what we do anywhere.
Lines(7-10) These are……………………First Cause
In these lines, the poet says that God names have a serious purpose. These names guide human beings. The poet says that these names are not mere casual names of God. These sacred names are derived from his genuine attributes. These names are not mere aimless titles at all. These names show that Allah is the First cause, or the maker and giver of everything.
Poem No.17 (The Delight Song by N.S Momaday)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “The Delight Song” composed by N.S. Momaday.
Context
This poem is in praise of different objects of nature. The poet throws light on the qualities of a man who is full of life. A man is full of life if he content, happy, and connected to his surroundings. He enjoys the beauty of nature and has good relations with his fellow beings.
Explanation
Lines(1-4) I am a feather………..follows a child
In these lines, the poet expresses his inner delight when he is the company of nature. The poet observes the movements of the birds flying in the air. He feels light, like their feathers. He feels active, like the horse running on the plain ground. He shares the movements of the fish. He enjoys their shining bodies swimming in the sun. He follows the child that moves forward, shedding its shadow behind him.
Lines(5-8) I am the evening……………farthest star
In these lines, the poet expresses his inner delight when he is the company of nature. The poet identifies himself with the evening light as it spreads. He also identifies himself as the attraction of the valleys, the flight of the eagle, the beads in their brightness in the necklace, and the glory of the distant stars. Thus, he feels one with them and enjoys what goes on with them.
Lines(9-14) I am the cold…………….in a lake
In these lines, the poet expresses his oneness and harmony with the elements of nature. He is the one with the cold of the loud noise of the rain, and the shine of the outer layer of snow. It is he who is the long course of the moon that reflects the lake and the four-colored flame of the fire. He is the dream of all the colored elements and objects of nature.
Lines(15-20) You see…………….I am alive
In these lines, the poet tells us about his relationship with the objects of nature. The poet explains in a new manner how he is living happily in the world. He has good relations with the earth, its important people, the beautiful things around him, and all that is productive and fruitful in nature. All the beautiful and eye catching sights keep him alive and active. The poet is in ideally happy position and situation, and he is happy and satisfied.
Poem No.18 (Love an Essence of all Religions by Jalaluddin Rumi)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “Love-An essence of all Religions” composed by Jalaluddin Rumi and translated by Dr.Nicholson.
Context
The poem deals with the significance of love in human life. It proves through examples that love is the essence of all religions and it is responsible for all the pleasures that we enjoy in our lives. Love is such a force that it changes the nature of every thing.
Explanation
Lines(1-4) Through love…………….good fortune
In these lines, the poet speaks about the power of love. Love is a binding force. All the living and non living things are affected by it. It is through love of God that we have these experiences and all our problems are solved. Thorns become roses for us. Vinegar turns into sweet syrup. It can turn a stake into a throne. With the help of love, our misfortune becomes good fortune. In short love can change our life.
Lines(5-8) Through love……………become harmless
In these lines, the poet speaks about the power of love. Love is a binding force. All the living and non living things are affected by it. It is through love of God that we have these experiences and all our problems are solved. Dangerous burning fire changes into light. Stones and problems turn into favorable conditions. Pains and sufferings change into pleasures and joys. Dangers like wild animals change into helpful conditions.
Lines(9-12) Through love………………becomes a slave
In these lines, the poet speaks about the power of love. Love is a binding force. All the living and non living things are affected by it. It is through love of God that we have these experiences and all our problems are solved. It changes sickness into health. The extreme anger turns into pity or kindness. Dying or even dead people come to life. Love can turn the kings into slaves. It is a motive force.
Poem No.19 (A man of words and not of deeds by Charles Perrault)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “A man of words and not of deeds” composed by Charles Perrault.
Context
The poet describes the way of life that is absolutely useless because it is based on talking and boasting only and has no practical value at all. The poet tells us that in life, deeds are more important then words. A man who does not take active part in the activities of life is a worthless and unwanted plant.
Explanation
Lines(1-4) A man of words………….full of snow
In these lines, the poet describes a person who talks a lot but does nothing is useful. He says that a person who always talks and do nothing is like a garden, which is full of weeds. And, when this garden fills with weeds, it becomes a garden that is covered with snow. As the snow spoils and destroys everything, the weeds spoil the garden as well.
Lines(5-8) And when the snow……………..in the sky
In these lines, the poet describes a person who talks a lot but does nothing is useful. The poet uses the metaphor of the snow in these lines also. He says that when the snow begins to fall, it is like a bird sitting on the wall. Then it moves away like the eagle flying fast in the sky. It proves that mere talking gives no positive and benefitted results.
Lines(9-12) And when the sky…………….your back
In these lines, the poet describes the condition of the talkative person at this stage of his life. He says that when the clouds begin to thunder in the sky, it is like a lion at the door of the house greedily waiting for something to eat. After this, he presses the door hard which makes a breaking sound. The idle man feels uneasiness and feels pain in his back. It is a terrible situation. The poet tells the shortcomings of the person who talks and does nothing useful.
Lines(13-16) And when your back…………dead indeed
In these lines, the poet tells us about the ending point or a final end of a person who talks a lot but does nothing useful. The poet says that when a stick bites on his back, he feels a very sharp and deep pain in it. Then he feels that something like a penknife is cutting into his heart. He feels that his heart has started bleeding, perhaps the beating and great shock that he has received cause a serious heart problem to him. He dies of it.
Poem No.20 (In Broken Images by Robert Graves)
Reference
These lines have been taken from the poem “In Broken Images” composed by Robert Graves.
Context
This poem discusses the positive and negative effects of two ways of thinking about life in clear images and in broken images. The poet says that we should not observe things quickly. We should observe them slowly, and then reach a conclusion. This attitude can bring a change in man’s life.
Explanation
Lines (1-4) He is quick……………my broken images
In these lines, the poet two persons “he” and “I” in the verses. The other person thinks quickly as his ideas are clear. He is not intelligent or clear in his understanding and thinking. He trusts or depends on his ideas or mental images, and does not think beyond them. So, his understanding is narrow and shallow. He is very slow in coming to the conclusion.
Lines(5-8) Trusting his images…………..the fact
In these lines, the poet two persons “he” and “I” in the verses. The poet criticizes other person who has clear images of life in his mind. The other person considers his ideas in the mind to be correct. He is sure that they are connected with or are relevant to the affairs or matters of life. He is also sure that his ideas represent the facts of life. In fact, the other person wrong in his thinking. His ideas are not complex like life. The simplicity of his ideas do not match the realities of life.
Lines(9-12) When the fact………………..broken images
In these lines, the poet two persons “he” and “I” in the verses. The poet criticizes other person who has clear images of life in his mind. When the facts are not agreement with his ideas, he begins blaming his feelings and understanding. His ideas are not agreement with the facts of life. His understanding of the facts of life is dull or slow. Thus, the person loses his self-confidence when the facts of life are in agreement with his ideas. The poet, on the other hand, does not blame his feelings when the facts of life are not in agreement with his ideas. He examines his ideas. His approach is quite flexible, experimental and scientific.
Lines(13-14) He in a new………………….my confusion
In these lines, the poet presents two persons “he” and “I”. The other person does not learn anything from his confusion about life. The poet learns from his confusion about life. His confusion helps him to understand life as it is in fact.